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Obituaries

January 2010 - June 2010

Jennifer Bradley
EASTLAND- Jennifer Bradley Ford of Eastland passed from this life into the presence of her Savior on August 1, 2010. She was 50 years old. Her life was too short, but very meaningful. She gave generously to so many without seeking recognition. We rejoice in knowing that on Sunday evening she received the greatest of all acknowledgements from her Lord and Savior. She was born to Earl C. Bradley, Jr. and Billye Bankston Bradley on December 4, 1959, in Tyler, Texas. She was a graduate of Eastland High School and Texas A&M University where she was a charter member of Delta Delta Delta. She married Stephens Taylor Ford on April 13, 1997. Together, they owned and operated Lakeside Golf Club in Eastland. She was a longtime member of First United Methodist Church of Eastland, Community Bible Study and was active in the Emmaus Community. Jenni was a loyal Aggie, Dallas Cowboys, and Texas Rangers fan as well as a faithful member of the Lakeside Ladies golf group. Her family and many friends will miss her wit, her laugh, and her smile. She is survived by her husband, Taylor of Eastland; her mother, Billye Bradley of Eastland; sister Leslie Bradley Keffer and husband Jim of Eastland; brothers E.T. Bradley of Eastland County, and Jeff Bradley and wife Vicki of Eastland. She was beloved “AJ” to her niece and nephews: Brad Keffer of Austin, Chris Keffer, wife Ashley, and daughter Brooklyn Claire of Fort Worth, Rob Keffer of New York City, Madison and Miles Bradley of Eastland, and Gene Bradley of Eastland. She was preceded in death by her father. Burial will be at the family ranch, Ten Shy, with a memorial service on Thursday, August 5, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Eastland. Visitation will be at Edwards Funeral Home from 5-7 on Wednesday evening. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eastland Meals on Wheels (P. O. Box 324, Eastland, TX 76448) or Eastland Memorial Hospital Volunteers (P. O. Box 897, Eastland, TX 76448)

Catherine Stephens-Styles
HAMLIN- Catherine L. (Tuder) Stephens-Styles, 81, joined her heavenly Father on August 1, 2010 at the Home Place Manor Nursing Home. Graveside services were held at 10:00 a.m. August 4, 2010 in Hamlin Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Adams-Foster- Ray Funeral Home. Catherine was the first born to Homer Lester and Itura “Billie” (Pruett) Tuder, in Ranger, TX on September 16, 1929. Her proud parents toted their blond headed little girl all over town. They were so proud that God had blessed them with a child and Catherine proved worthy of all the thrills shown to her through out her life. She entered school in Ranger, TX. Her father worked with T & P oil which moved the family to Odessa and McCamey where Catherine lived most of her childhood. She and her sisters Marie and Loretta would make many friends in McCamey and had fond memories of climbing Kings Mountain that towered beside their home on the oil lease. Catherine married her soul mate and man of her dreams Samuel James Stephens on March 15, 1947 in McCamey. They were married twenty-six years before his death. Catherine moved to Newport, TN where she met and married Luther Styles. He preceded her in 1982. Catherine lived with her daughters Paula and Mary before moving to Hamlin to live with her son Lester. Due to illness Catherine became a resident at the Home Place Manor in Hamlin. She was blessed with a loving roommate and wonderful staff that cared for her until her death. Catherine is remembered as a sweet, bashful and loving person. She is preceded in death by her parents, both husbands, two sisters and a brother (Loretta Shook and twins Barbara Fay and Bobby Lee Tuder). Catherine is survived by three sons and two daughter-in-law, Samuel James and Sherry Stephens of Newport, TN, James Lester Stephens of Hamlin and Bill Stephens of Newport, TN; two daughters and sons-in-law, Mary Kay and Joe Don Helms of Ft. Worth and Paula Marie Styles and husband Gary of Newport, TN.; one sister, Marie “Kitty” Tuder Riter of Wichita Falls; sixteen grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Edith Witten
MIDLAND- Edith Witten, 93, of Midland, joined Raymond her beloved husband of 62 years on August 2, 2010. Edith was born in Eastland County on May 30, 1917 to Robert and Lille Sneed. As a young woman, Edith worked at the bomber plant in Ft. Worth during the 1940’s and later at Borden’s in Midland. She is preceded in death by her parents, two brothers and three sisters. Survivors include two nephews and four nieces. Graveside services were held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, August 4, 2010 at Resthaven Memorial Park. Arrangements were under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home. Condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com.

Coby Rogers
Coby Wayne Rogers, 34, of Arlington, passed away August 3, 2010. Graveside services, officiated by Pastor Linda Leveridge, were Friday, August 6, 2010 at 11:30 AM in the Scranton Cemetery in Eastland County. The services are under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home of Cisco, TX. Coby was born February 29, 1976, in Cisco to Jimmy Dwayne and Kathy Ann (Leveridge) Rogers. He was employed in the entertainment business and was a Methodist. Survivors include his parents, Fred and Kathy Hoffman of Arlington, sister, Karen Letitia Waldrep of Abilene, grandmother, Oleta Rogers of Crowley, step brother, Chris Hoffman and wife, Care, of Arlington, two step-sisters, Marcie Baldwin and husband, Shannon, of North Richland Hills, Monica Gardella and husband, Bill, of Boyd, and several aunts, uncles, nephews and nieces. Memorials may be given to the American Diabetes Association or charity of doner’s choice.

Jurald Watts
ABILENE- Jurald G. Watts, 88, died Saturday, July 31, 2010 in Abilene. A graveside service was held at 10 a.m. Thursday, August 5, 2010 at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park in Colleyville, Texas directed by Elmwood Funeral Home in Abilene. Jurald was born on August 27, 1921 in Rising Star the son of Marion Forrest Watts and Clara Etta Dill Watts. He graduated from Baird High School and attended Hardin-Simmons University. He served his country in the United States Navy during WW II where he fought and was wounded in the Battle of the Coral Sea aboard the USS Chester in May of 1942. After an Honorable Discharge from the Navy, Jurald worked in Civil Service as a communications repairman for many years. He was a 32 degree Mason, a York Rite member and a member of Shriners International. He enjoyed playing dominoes and telling old war stories. Survivors are three brothers, Ike Watts and wife Emma of Cisco, George Watts of Blanket and Donald Watts and wife Patricia of Eastland; two granddaughters, Alicia and Theresa and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by siblings, Gayland, Ralph, Forrest, Willard and Edgar Watts, Valmarie Johnson and his daughter, Tommie Evon Robbins.

Billie Beck
EASTLAND – Billie Dean Beck, 81, of Ranger passed away August 3, 2010 in Ranger. Services were held in Eastland at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, August 7, 2010 at Edwards Funeral Chapel in Eastland. Burial followed at the Bullock Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Visitation will be Friday from 6 to 8 P.M. at Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland. Billie was born November 11, 1928 in Ranger, TX to Charlie and Frankie (Freeman) Beck. Billie joined the Air Force in 1946 and while in the service received a WWII victory medal. Billie loved to fish, hunt and was an avid golfer. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Eastland. He was a loving and caring family man who will be missed by all that knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, Jerry Beck and sister, Anna Beck. He is survived by his wife, Peggy Beck; sons, Ricky Beck and wife of Colorado Springs, CO, Darrell Beck and wife of Garland, TX and Glenn Beck and wife of Ranger; daughter, Darla Voyles and husband of Jacksboro, TX; sisters, Glenda Hatt and husband of Olden, TX, Lillian Petree and husband of Olden, TX, and Dorotha Wood and husband of Mesquite, TX, brother, Oliver Beck and wife of Olden, TX; 5 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Kaylyn Hendricks
CISCO- Kaylyn Renee` Hendricks, three month old infant daughter of Jocelyn Moore and Dean Hendricks went to her heavenly home on Wednesday August 4, 2010 in Eastland Memorial Hospital. Kaylyn was born on April 22, 2010 in Fort Worth, Texas. Visitation for Kaylyn will be held at Kimbrough Funeral Home from 2:00 PM Friday, August 6, 2010 with graveside services following at 4:00 PM in Oakwood Cemetery. Kaylyn was greeted in heaven by her grandfathers, Harold Hendricks and Richard Moore; grandmother, Carol Blue; great grandfather, Virgil Moore; great aunt and uncle, Beulah and George Douglas; cousins Timothy Williams and Laura Wulfjen. Kaylyn was deeply loved and will be missed by her parents, Jocelyn Moore and Dean Hendricks of Cisco; brothers, Timothy Moore, Dylan Davis, and Josh Hendricks all of Cisco, a sister Abby (Hendricks) Rose of Abilene; grandparents, Jackie (Hendricks) Plumlee and husband Walt of Abilene; grandmother, Sandra Fudge and husband Mike of Port Aransas; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Cora Bennett
Cora Lee Bennett, age 87 of Gorman, passed away Wednesday, August 4, 2010 at the Ranger Care Center. Graveside services will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, August 6, 2010 at the Simpson Cemetery with Joe Bernier officiating. Cora Lee was born January 1, 1923 at the Indian Creek community in Brown County to John Griffith and Virginia Pittman Griffith. She married George Elbert Bennett on March 24, 1940 in Breckenridge, Texas. He preceded her in death on September 15, 2009. She was a homemaker and had worked at the sewing factory and Rooney Williams Insurance Agency. She was a member of the First Methodist Church. Survivors include, son, Dwight Bennett and his wife, Kathy of Mansfield; daughter, Sharon Jones of Austin; sister, Katy Hise of Big Spring; four grandchildren, Katrina, Jennifer, Kathi and Chris and five great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, four sisters and one brother.

Mary Ringo
GORDON – Mary Ringo, 98, of Gordon passed away on Wednesday, July 28, 2010 in Stephenville. Services were held at 10:00 A.M. Friday, July 30, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Gordon with Rev. Michael Jones officiating. Burial followed in the New Gordon Cemetery. Mrs. Ringo was born on December 22, 1911 in Gordon to John & Myra (Witt) Merriman. She married Everett Ringo on January 9, 1929. She was a homemaker, a member of the First Baptist Church and had worked in the Gordon school cafeteria for many years, retiring in 1976. She was preceded in death by her husband, Everett; a son, John; and a great-granddaughter, Tiffany. Survivors include a daughter, Mary Lucille Barron of Gordon; 2 grandsons, Clifford Barron of Gordon and Jimmy Barron of Tolar; 3 great-grandsons, Mike Barron, Montie Barron and Brad Barron; 4 great-great-grandchildren, Brady, Brock, Baileigh & Brylee; and a sister, Oma Sperling of Gordon. Memorials donations in Mary’s name may be made to the Tri-City Ambulance Service.

Donna Alexander
Donna Sharlene Stewart Alexander was born May 4, 1957 in San Antonio, Texas. She passed away July 25, 2010 at a Dallas hospital. Memorial service will be August 2, 2010 at New Hope Baptist Church in Ranger. She was preceded in death by her parents, George Stewart, Sr. and Martha Boggs. Survivors are one son, William David Alexander; 3 grandchildren; brothers, George Stewart, Jr. of Abilene, Roy Leon Stewart of Ranger, and Michael Dwayne Stewart of Ranger.

Verle Brown
RANGER- Verle Brown, 80, of Ranger died Sunday, July 25, 2010 in Ranger. A memorial service was held at the Brown residence 1301 Spring Road, Ranger on Thursday, July 29th at 10 a.m. Verle was born May 25, 1930 in Santa Anna, Texas to Linton and Ada Brown. He graduated from McCamey High School in 1949. Verle married the love of his life, Barbara Sue Medford, on December 27, 1973 in Post, Texas. They moved from Post to Lake Stamford where they made their home. Verle loved to fish, hunt and weld. He was a member of the Ft. Stockton masons. He was a loving, caring and vibrant person who will be greatly missed by all that knew him. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; and two sons, Randy Hudgens and Richard Lynn Hudgens. Survivors are his wife, Barbara Sue Brown; son, James Earl Brown and wife Becky of Stephenville, TX; daughters, Jenny Harrington and husband Roger of Midland, TX, Julie Childers and husband Brent of Spring, TX, Jill Boren of Snyder, TX, Darla Davis of Ranger and Carla Crutchfield and husband Rodney of Keller, TX.; two brothers; two sisters; 14 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Mary Ann Barnhill
RANGER- Mary Ann Barnhill, 94, died Friday, July 23, 2010. Services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 26, 2010 at First United Pentecostal Church. Burial followed at the Evergreen Cemetery.

Frances Hamilton
CISCO- Frances Lorene Hamilton, 91, of Cisco passed away July 30, 2010, at the Homestead Nursing & Rehab. Services will be Monday, August 2, 2010 at 2:00 PM at the Kimbrough Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in the Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.

David McGowen

David L. McGowen, age 60 of Rising Star, passed away Saturday, July 24, 2010 at his home. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 27, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Cross Plains with Matt McGowen officiating assisted by Dr. Bill Fowler; burial followed in the Pioneer Cemetery. The family received friends and relatives for a time of visitation and sharing memories on Monday, July 26 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Higginbotham Funeral Home, 309 NE 4th St , Cross Plains , TX . David was born on October 30, 1949 in Rising Star to Howard and Charleene (McCowen) McGowen. David worked at the Cross Plains Review from the age of 13 until he was 19 years old for Benny Glover and Jack Scott, both men had a great impact on his life. He graduated in 1968 from Cross Plains High School. He married Sara Butler in Abilene on December 3, 1973. David worked in sales several years before he went to work for the U.S. Post Office in Brownwood as a Postman and worked there for 30 years. David served as a Deacon at Cottonwood Baptist Church where his son, Matt, was the minister. He is survived by his wife, Sara McGowen of Rising Star, TX; son, Matt McGowen and wife Sonda of Cross Plains; daughters, Leslie Heskett and husband Brian of Arlington; Allison McGowen of Rising Star; mother, Charleene McGowen of Brownwood; sister, Garnette McKoy and husband Jim of Cross Plains; brother, Danny McGowen of Brownwood; granddaughters that he loved dearly, Ava Joy McGowen, Adelynn Kate McGowen, and Shera Gary who he claimed as a granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his father Howard McGowen. David loved people and he loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He will be missed by all who knew him. Donations may be made to the Cottonwood Baptist Church in memory of David McGowen.

Tim Kirk
Tim D. Kirk, age 61, of Eagle Rock, Missouri, passed away Friday, July 23, 2010, in St. John’s Regional Health Center, Springfield, Missouri. He was born January 3, 1949, in Gorman, Texas, the son of Homer H. and Rena Mae (Smith) Kirk. On September 26, 1981, in Dallas, Texas, he was united in marriage to Kathleen J. “Kathy” Clifford, who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Angela Skurka of Chicago, Illinois; two grandchildren, Riley and Payton; one brother, Jim Kirk of Texas; two sisters, Brenda Newton and Linda Wooldridge both of Texas; his mother and father-in-law, Betty and Ralph Clifford of Cassville, Missouri and his companion and buddy, “Gulle”. Preceding him in death were his parents. Tim received his education in Missouri and continued on to college at St. Mary’s College in St. Louis, Missouri, where he graduated. He enjoyed building and was a “handy man”. Tim was a commercial real estate owner and investor, serving on the board of the Dallas Boys and Girls Club and was the head of the construction committee for many years. In October, 2006, he and Kathy made their home on Table Rock Lake, where he was an avid nature lover. Some of his other enjoyments were reading, watching movies and traveling with Kathy around the world. Tim and Kathy served on the building committee for the St. Edward’s Parish Center and were very instrumental in the completion of this center. Funeral services were held at 7:00 P.M., Monday, July 26, 2010, in Fohn Funeral Home, Cassville, Missouri. Reverend Paul Wahlert conducted the services. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 A.M., Thursday, July 29, 2010, in Oakland Cemetery, Gorman, Texas, under the direction of Fohn Funeral Home, Cassville. Reverend Tony Ball will conduct the services. Friends may call from 4:00 P.M. until service time Monday, in Fohn Funeral Home, Cassville.

Carlton Langford
RANGER – On July 23, 2010 Carlton Ray “Corky” Langford, 66 of Ranger, TX was called to the Lord’s side. A memorial service will be held for him on Friday, July 30, 2010 at 1:00 P.M. at the Gunsight Baptist Church under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Corky began his life in Ranger on December 29, 1943 and moved to New Mexico in his teens. There he married his wife of 46 years Linda. Corky spent many years working the oil fields for DN&S and John Hendricks Oil. After retirement they returned to Texas where Corky spent his final years fishing, farming, ranching and enjoying his life. He is preceded in death by his parents Bertha and Robert Langford and brother Neil Langford. He is survived by his wife Linda Langford of Ranger, TX, daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Andrew Blanco of Gallup, NM, brother, Rayford Langford of Alice, TX, sister, Donna Parker of Whitney, TX, and three grandchildren, Sasha, Brice and Taylor Blanco of Gallup, NM.

Duluth Jackson
Duluth Black Jackson, age 94 and a resident of Flower Mound, TX. Born on October 1, 1915 in Pleasant Hill, TX to John Laud and Mary Black. She passed away on Monday, July 19, 2010. Duluth was a graduate of Carbon, Texas High School and married T.G. Jackson on October 2, 1937 and she was preceded in death by T.G. after 65yrs of marriage. The Jackson family lived all over including Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, New York and Australia. Duluth was an avid writer, Poetry was her claim to fame, but she also wrote short stories. In 1990, she wrote and had published “Little Rabbit in My Garden”, a collection of poems written during various times in her life. Her other interest included Bible Study, PEO, Red Hat Society, reading and spending enjoyable time with family and friends. She is survived by her son, Stephen Jackson and his wife Rita of Flower Mound, TX and five grandsons, Matthew Eric Jackson and wife Kim, Mark Stephen Jackson and wife Shanna, Jacob Scott Jackson, Christopher Clay and wife Wendy and Robert Matthews Clay and wife Amber, and Nine Great-Grandchildren. She leaves her family with a legacy of love and wisdom and a desire to live a similar life. Visitation was held on Thursday, July 22, 2010 from 10:00 am till 11:00 am at Flower Mound Family Funeral Home with the funeral service starting at 11:00 am. Graveside services will be held at 4:00 pm at Murray Cemetery in Carbon, TX. Memorials may be made to Crossroads Bible Church or a Charity of choice.

Flora Campbell
CISCO - Flora Itery Luttrell Campbell, after a life well lived, went home to be with the Lord and Savior on July 15, 2010 at the age of 95. She was born September 10, 1914 to Elizabeth and Lonnie Campbell Lon and Lizbeth Honea Luttrell. Flora was preceded in death by her parents; 2 sons, Ed Campbell and Roy Gene Campbell; and her husband, Jack Campbell. She is survived by her daughters, Betty Story, Francis Miller, Red Sims, Viola Story, Velma Lundy and her son, Johnnie Campbell and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 18, 2010 at the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home in Cisco. Burial followed in the Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation was from 6 until 7:30 pm Saturday at the funeral home.

Lola Hart
OLDEN – Lola Faye Hart, 70, of Olden, passed away Monday, July 19, 2010 at her residence. Graveside services will be held Saturday, July 24, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at the Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. There will be no visitation. Lola Faye was born October 20, 1939 in Fisher City, TX to D.J. and Jessie (Ausborn) Johnson. Lola Faye was a homemaker for most of her life and loved to cook for her family. She also enjoyed gardening, canning jelly and her cats and flowers. Lola Faye was a loving and caring person who will be greatly missed by all that knew her. She is preceded in death by her husband, Buster Hart, two sisters and four brothers. She is survived by her son Darrell Hart and wife Kim of Ft. Worth, daughters, Debra St. Clair of Waco, Rhonda Graham and husband Ricky of Tuscola and Audrey Tomlinson and husband Billy of Ft.Worth, grandchildren, Amber and Luke Adair, Kelsye, Dakota and Colter Graham, Tayler and Tanner Tomlinson and Jordan Hart.

Billy Johnson
POTOSI- Billy Joe Johnson, 66, of Potosi, died Thursday, July 15, 2010, at a local hospital. Services were held at the Potosi Baptist Church at 10 a.m. Monday, July 19, 2010, with Pastor Keith Clifton officiated. Burial followed at 3 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger, TX. directed by Community Memorial Funeral Home. Billy Joe was born in Ranger, Texas on August 18, 1943 to William Thomas and Bobbye Joe (Wheat) Johnson. He raised goats and loved to take his boat out and fish after which we would have a fish fry. At every family gathering, Billy Joe was the BBQ King. For fourteen years, he was a long distance driver who had a passion for classic cars. Billy Joe was a wonderful husband, a very unselfish person with everybody, and had a good sense of humor. Survivors are his mother, Bobbye Joe Williamson of Abilene; wife, Lois (Simmons) Johnson of Abilene; a son, William Neal Johnson of Clyde; a daughter, Christie Diaz and husband, Fernando, of St. Cloud, Florida; one brother, Eddie Frank Williamson and wife, Ina Jo, of Abilene; aunt and uncle, Ruth and Carey Shipley of Aledo, TX; 13 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; a host of cousins; and a special cousin, Johnny Merritt.

Troy Anderson
CISCO- Troy Meredith Anderson, 89, of Cisco and formerly of Fort Worth passed away Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at Eastland Memorial Hospital. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Saturday at The Old Gospel Church , July 24, 2010 officiated by Brother Dennis McClure. Burial with military honors will be in Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation at the funeral home with family was 5:00-7:00 PM Friday. Mr. Anderson was born in Cisco, Texas on August 31, 1920 to Reverend Leemon Clay and Ruby Mable (Doyle) Anderson. He served in the US Navy during World War II and was survivor of the attack on Pearl Harbor; he attended Cisco Junior College, Texas Christian University, and graduated from Texas Wesleyan University. Mr. Anderson retired from the City of Fort Worth on January 1, 1983 where he was an Environmental Health Coordinator. He was married Avalon Marie Hamilton who preceded him in death, he later married Syble O. White who also preceded him in death. He was a Life Member of the VFW and a member of The Old Gospel Church. He is survived by sons, Andy Anderson and wife Gloria of Weatherford, Greg Anderson and wife Martha of Benbrook; brother, Teddy Anderson and wife Nina Jo of Cisco; sisters, Patsy Owens and husband Larry of Cisco, Koretha Richardson and husband Johnny Bob of Cisco; grandchildren, Troy Grant Anderson, Tonya Swaim. Jill Ratliff, Heather Anderson, Jeremy Anderson, and Maranda Anderson; great grandchildren, Courtney Reasoner, Frank Watson, Nathan Swaim, Caleb Swaim, and Cole Anderson. He was preceded in death by a son, Randy Lynn Anderson; brothers, Billy Anderson and Norman Anderson; sisters, Lona Allard and Jewel Alexander; and a great grandchild, Corey Anderson.

Billie Huggins
STRAWN – Billie Huggins passed on Saturday, July 17, 2010 at the home she loved on Palo Pinto Lake. She was born in De Leon Texas on September 20, 1931. She moved to the Lone Camp community in 1994 from Lockney, Texas, where she was a lifelong resident. She was a member of the Lone Camp Baptist Church where she played the organ for the past several years. She is loved and will be missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her husband Fred J. Huggins of Lockney, and parents, Virgil and Myrtle Skaggs. Billie’s surviving family include her brother, McElton Skaggs and sister, Geraldine Allen, daughter and son-in-law, Sandra and Don Boswell, son, Terry Huggins, 3 granddaughters, Holly Rains and her husband Jason, Wendy Beauchamp and her husband Jake, Amy Crowell and her husband Sean; three great granddaughters, Mina Rains, Madison Beauchamp, and Dora Crowell; four great grandsons, Garrett Rains, Logan and Landon Beauchamp, Isaac Crowell. In addition to her family are several cherished friends, most importantly, Norman Spray of Bedford, Texas and his two daughters, Rhonda and Misty Spray. Visitation will be held on Monday, July 19, 2010 at Edwards Funeral Home in Strawn from 6 to 8 p.m. A graveside service will follow Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m. at the De Leon Cemetery in De Leon, Texas. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Angela Stanford Foundation, “Providing financial assistance to cancer patients and their families”, at www.angelastanford.com.

George Regian, Jr.
George Steve Regian, Jr., age 52 of Eastland, passed away Saturday, July 17, 2010 at an Abilene hospital. Graveside services will be 3:00 P.M. Monday, at the Murray Cemetery near Carbon with Denver Rainey officiating. Steve was born November 22, 1957 in Gorman, to George Steve Regian, Sr. and Betty Lou Jones Regian. He is survived by his mother, Betty Regian of Gorman; one brother, David Regian of Gorman; four sisters Betty Faye Petree of Stephenville, Belinda Pratt of Cisco, Cordelia Redman of Dublin and Barbara Rogers of Eastland. He was preceded in death by his father, and one brother Kenneth Regian.

Kathryn Lynam
MINERAL WELLS- Kathryn Elaine Lynam, 59, passed away Saturday, July 17, 2010 in a Fort Worth care center. Graveside services were held at 2:00 P.M. Tuesday at the Landreth Cemetery with Melvin Blalock officiating and under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Strawn. Kathryn was born August 9, 1950 in Mineral Wells to the late Durwood and Melba (Ennis) Porter. She married Ray Lynam in Starkville, Mississippi on July 25, 1973. She was a member of the East Bankhead Hwy. Church of Christ. She is survived by her husband, Ray; children, Angela Darlene Paxton and husband, Eddie, of Mineral Wells, Lisa D’Ann Daughtery of Grand Prairie, Brenda Michelle Gazaway and husband, Kenny Ray, of Europa, Mississippi and Angela Michelle Fry Turk and husband, Lawrence, of Mineral Wells; ten grandchildren; six great grandchildren; sisters, Sheila Kay Porter of Mineral Wells, Carolyn Dean Veach and husband, Steve, of Mineral Wells, Evelyn Lorrain Calhoun and husband, Mike, of Weatherford, Belinda Lee Moss and husband, Russell, of Cool, Texas and Loretta Lynn Farmer of Mineral Wells; aunt, Evelyn Sue Porter Sherrod of Stephenville; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; close relatives and friends, Cleo Davis of Arlington, Anna Pool of Mineral Wells and Cricket Reynolds of South Bend, Texas.

Ida "Bee" Douglas
CISCO - Ida “Bee” Douglas 87, died Friday, July 9, 2010, in Homestead Nursing Center. Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 11, 2010, in Oakwood Cemetery officiated by Reverend Zach Tunnell, and under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Mrs. Douglas was born in Silsbee, on June 27, 1923 to James Marvin and Florence Olivia (Martin) Wynn. She married Clarence Freeman Douglas, Sr. in April of 1943 in Fort Stockton; he preceded her in death in 1986. She was a homemaker and a retired desk clerk at Sunday House Inn in Pecos, and attended Calvary Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Edward Wynn, Marvin Wynn and Martin Wynn; sister, Elizabeth Cress and daughter, Cathryn Kennedy and son, Clarence Freeman Douglas, Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Nancy Douglas and husband, George of Cisco; grandchildren, April DiCarlo and husband, Richard of Fort Worth, Airon Iversen and husband, Tyler of Harker Heights; Amy Parten and husband, Todd of Cisco, and Jimmy Kennedy and wife, Amber of Wolfforth; great grandchildren, Amber and Kathryn DiCarlo, Haleigh and Reid Iversen, Makayla and Kelsey Parten, Michael and Casey Kennedy. The family request that memorials may be made to Redeemer Lutheran Learning Center, 1711 Conrad Hilton Avenue, Cisco, Texas 76437.

Marie Lee
LOVINGTON, N.M. -- Funeral services for Marie Lee, 86, of Lovington, were held on Wednesday, July 7, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. at Jackson Ave Baptist Church with Bro. Mike McGuire officiating. Burial will follow at Lovington Cemetery. Services are being conducted by Kirby-Smith-Rogers Funeral Home. Marie was born December 13, 1923 in Olden, Texas to William Shirley and Susie Mae (Casey) Vinson and passed away on July 4, 2010 in Lubbock, Texas. She was raised in Texas, married William H. Lee Jr. on January 25, 1943 in Ranger, Texas. They moved to Eunice in 1952 then moved to Lovington in 1960. She was a schoolteacher, teaching 1st grade, junior high and middle school in Lovington. She was a homemaker, a collector of many things, a Sunday school teacher, choir member, gardener, loving mother and friend. She won many blue ribbons at the fair for her preserves, jellies, and quilts. Pecan pies were a specialty of hers which she always baked for events and friends. She was a member of Jackson Ave Baptist Church since the early 60’s and the NM Assoc. of Education Retirees, the LEA, NEA, and the NMEA. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, one brother, J. W. Vinson and two sisters, Betty Lou Vinson and Mary Lowrance. She is survived by two sons, William E. and wife, Brenda Lee of Crosby, Texas, and Johnny A. and wife, Deborah Lee of Valrico, FL; one daughter, Cynthia Sue Adams of Denver, CO; one brother, Perry F. “Buddy” Vinson of Ranger, Texas, and one sister: Nellie Sue Warren of Cisco, Texas; nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Frank H. White
Frank H. White, Gunnery Sergeant, USMC (ret.) received final orders to his permanent duty station on June 2, 2010. Frank H. White enlisted in the Marine Corps on November 24, 1967 and continued on active duty for almost 24 years until medically retired with the rank of gunnery sergeant. During active service, Gunny White earned the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart with two stars, Good Conduct medal, National Defense Service medal, Combat Action ribbon, Sea Service deployment ribbon, Vietnam Service ribbon and Vietnam Campaign ribbon. Gunny held a master parachute badge and was also qualified in demolitions disposal and as a ‘recon’ marine. Until his death, Gunny was the owner of a restaurant known as “Gunny’s Place” at several locations in Ranger and Eastland. Gunny donated his remains to medical science for education and research, and directed that his cremated remains be returned to Eastland County.
Larry Monroe, Ranger, Texas, will coordinate final arrangements.

Estalee Price
Another proud chapter of Mexia’s history has been closed with the passing of Mrs. Estalee M. Price. Mrs. Price passed from this earthly realm on July 2, 2010 in Mexia at the age of 97. She was born July 12, 1912 in Carbon, Texas to Nathan C. and Amanda E. (Guy) Morris. In 1939, Estalee graduated from the University of Texas Medical Branch with her Registered Nursing Degree. After working for a time at UTMB, she later went on to earn a bachelor of science degree in nursing at Columbia University in New York City in 1945. Upon her return from New York, she held several management and education roles at UTMB. She was a member of the Heritage Council of The University of Texas Medical Branch, where she endowed a chair and a scholarship in the nursing school. She was very proud of her degree, her school, her endowment gift and her scholarship fund. In 1946 she married Rufus Elmo Price. They enjoyed 26 years of marriage until his death in 1972. During their marriage, the couple traveled extensively across the United States and abroad. The Price’s moved to Mexia in 1951, and Mrs. Price was offered the chance to become director of nursing at the Mexia State School . She held that position, often teaching classes for employees about personal care of the students until her retirement in 1976. During this time, Mrs. Price was elected to the board of directors of the Mexia State School Credit Union, on which she served until 1982. She was president of the board from 1976 until 1982. Estalee served on the board of the General Mexia Hospital during the time the west wing was added. She had been a member of the Women’s Friday Club since 1952, having served as president, secretary and parliamentarian. The First United Methodist Church or her second home as she referred to it, was a major part of her life and she served in many capacities there, including the choir which she was a member of for fifty years. In 1971 and 1972, Mrs. Price was chair of the administrative board, the only woman to serve in that position in the history of the church, which was founded in 1872. Mrs. Price was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, sisters, Opal Morris, Loretta Morris and brother, Guy Morris, Step-daughter, Miss Ruth Mary Price, Step-son and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Elmo Price and their daughter, Janelle Price, and Step-son and wife, Dr. and Mrs. Tom Price. Survivors include step-granddaughter, Vicki Price DeWeese and husband Thomas Peter, Step-great granddaughter, Amy and step-great grandson Kelly of Austin, Step-grandson, Tom Price, his two sons, Christopher Price of Portland , Oregon and Grant Price of Laramie , Wyoming . She is also survived by cousins, Jim Nagele of Pryor , Oklahoma and James Boles of Levelland, Texas and by her church family and her very special friends and caretakers at the Bowie House. Funeral services for Mrs. Price were held at 2 PM Monday, July 5, 2010, at the First United Methodist Church in Mexia with the Reverend Brad Brittain officiating. Interment was in the Eastland Cemetery in Eastland, Texas on Tuesday at 11 AM . Visitation was from 1 to 2 PM at the church. Honorary pallbearers will be Terry Don Shivers, James Dawley, Art Nutt, Bob Crider, Dan Franks, Mike Green, Bill Ferris, Kent Sheffield, James Lewis and Scott Mack. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church or the Mexia Academic Sweater Fund. Please visit www.blair-stubbs.com to sign the guest book or to leave a memorial message for her family.

Saul Pullman
EASTLAND – Saul Pullman, 69, a native Eastland, passed away Tuesday, June 22, 2010 in Eastland. Graveside services will be held at 12:30 P.M. Sunday, June 27, 2010 at the Eastland City Cemetery, directed by Edwards Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at the First Baptist Church in Eastland at 1:30 p.m. following the graveside service. Saul was the son of Henry and Tillie (Engelburg) Pullman. He attended schools at Eastland, where he excelled in football and track. He graduated from Texas Christian University in 1962 where he was a member of the football and track teams, with one of his distinctions being in Southwest Conference broad jump champion. He graduated from the University Of Texas School Of Law in 1965. He practiced law in Eastland for over 30 years until his retirement several years ago. He attained the rank of Captain in the US Army JAG Reserves. He was a devout member and officer of the Eastland Rotary Club. He served on the board of Eastland Assisted Living Corporation and was a member of the TCU Ex-Letterman’s Association. He was an 18 year board member of Texas Council of Community Centers and a 20 year member of the board of trustees of the Center of Life Resources in Brownwood and was recently elected to serve on the Texas Council Risk Management Fund Board. A colleague aptly characterized Saul as follows: “He articulated his position with passion and clarity. He was one of the smartest people I have ever known, priding himself on asking tough questions - more than once if he thought it needed doing.” Saul was a world traveler, having hiked the Inea Trail in Peru and climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa. Saul was defiantly “one of a kind” and will be missed by his many friends in Eastland and all over the world. He is preceded in death by his parents and long time friend Tiger. Saul is survived by his sister Mozelle Katz of Leesburg, Florida, his nephew Michael Katz and wife Gari of Olney, Maryland and his niece Beth Caraccio and husband Mark of Harrison, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made in Saul’s memory to the RotaryClub, M.H.M.R, or the the donor’s favorite charity.

James Whitehead Sr.
James Allen Whitehead, Sr., 84, of Cisco passed away June 23, 2010, in the Homestead Nursing & Rehabilitation of Cisco. He was cremated and there are no services planned at this time. James Allen was born October 8, 1925, to Belton and Esther (Weatherby) Whitehead in Woodson, Texas. He graduated from Cisco High School and Cisco Junior College with an Associate Degree. H served in the US Army during World War II, he was a member of Masonic Lodge #556 since 1954 and a member of the Cisco Church of Christ. Survivors include his son, James Whitehead and wife Karen of DeLeon; sister Ruby Nunnally of Cisco; grandson, Shawn Whitehead and wife Ashli of Putnam; granddaughters, Brandlee Rule of Lubbock and Natasha Daughtry and husband Jeremy of Sylacauga, Alabama; great grandchildren, Shaylei Whitehead, Cade Whitehead and Joe Ray Mapp.

Bertie Vinson
CLYDE- Bertie Gail Vinson, 61, of Clyde died Sunday, June 20, 2010 in Angleton, Texas. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 24, 2010 at First Baptist Church in Clyde with Brandon Hawk officiating. Burial followed in the Clyde Cemetery under the direction of Bailey-Howard Funeral Home. Visitation was held Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Mrs. Vinson was born July 24, 1948 in Sweetwater, Texas to Sidney Ralph and Bertie (McGee) Vinson. She graduated from Clyde High School and was a lifelong resident of Clyde. She was an Artist. She was a member of Kingdom Life Fellowship in Clyde. Survivors are one son, Luca Albelice and wife Joyce of Angleton; two daughters, Monica Reid and husband Doug of Abilene and Francesca Hafner and husband Billy of Clyde; her father, Sidney Ralph Vinson of Proctor; one brother, Eric Vinson and wife Susan; two sisters, Nita Harmon and husband Jim and Karen Boen and husband Harold of Desdemona; 12 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her mother.

Dorothy Williams
EASTLAND – Dorothy Williams, 81, of Early and formerly of Eastland, passed away Friday, June 18, 2010 in Early. Services were held at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 20, 2010 at Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland. Dorothy was born January 27, 1929 in Humble, TX to Vernon and Helen (Urban) Howard. She met and married Charlie Williams in 1951 in Humble, TX. They lived in Clute while Charlie worked for Dow Chemical. They returned to Eastland to raise their children. Dorothy was active in the PTO. She took many years of Art from various places and was a member of the Eastern Star. Dorothy enjoyed painting landscape from photos that she took and was also a member of the Eastland and Eastland Co. Art Club. She was preceded in death by her husband. She is survived by her sons, Steve Williams and wife Kathy of Brownwood and Ray Williams of Comanche; grandchildren, Clarrisa Gonsalez and husband Argelio of Eastland and Carrie Williams of Austin; and two great-grandchildren.

Edwin 'Moose' Vaughn
Edwin “Moose” Vaughn, 87, of Rising Star, Texas passed away on Sunday, June 20, 2010 in Comanche, Texas. Funeral services were held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, June 23, 2010 at Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel in Rising Star, Texas with Terry Simmons officiating. Burial was in the South Park Cemetery in Pearland, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in Charge. Moose was born on April 18, 1923 in Deep River, Iowa to Samuel I. Vaughn and Iva M. Grant-Vaughn. He married Doris Rodden on October 25, 1957 in Rosenburg, Texas who preceded him in death on January 7, 2010. He served in the Navy during WWII and in the Korean War as a military pilot. He was a Baptist. He lived in the Rising Star Community for 35 years and before moving here he lived in Mineral Wells, Texas. He is survived by his son, Larry N. Vaughn of Woodville, TX; daughter, Karen Lynne Varnell of Tulsa, OK; daughter-in-law, Sandra Fisher of Ft. Worth; 7 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Doris Vaughn; son, Ronald Fisher; and sister, Kathryn Maddox.

Alma Moreton
FORT WORTH -- Alma Williamson Moreton died peacefully at her home Wednesday evening, June 16, 2010, in her 88th year. Service was held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 22, 2010 in the chapel at Trinity Terrace, 1600 Texas St. She was laid to rest privately next to her husband, Bob, in the Mausoleum at Greenwood Memorial Park. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, consideration of contributions to the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra or to a charity of one’s choice, in her memory, is suggested. A native of Eastland, Texas, Alma was born April 6, 1922, the daughter of Jack and Dixie Connellee Williamson; Mr. Williamson died in an automobile accident while Alma was a child. A very talented musician, she and her mother moved to New York City where the young violinist became the first Eastland High School graduate to audition and be invited to study at the Julliard School. After graduating from Julliard, she moved to Temple, Texas where she taught violin and viola. It was while in Temple that Alma was introduced to a young doctor, Robert D. Moreton, whom she married about a year later. The Moretons moved to Fort Worth where he and Dr. Tom Bond founded the Radiation Center, now MD Anderson Moncrief Cancer Center. Alma became a member of the Cecillian Club, a musical entity of the Junior Woman’s Club, and began performing in quartets and faculty recitals at Texas Christian University. She was recruited to play in the viola section of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and later became second chair in the first violin section. Alma and Bob moved to Houston where they lived for 33 years; Dr. Moreton died in 1992. In 1998, Alma returned home to Fort Worth. After more than 50 years of playing violin, Mrs. Moreton retired. She donated her violin to the TCU School of Music, her piano to a hospital in Houston and her viola to the Julliard School. Survivors: In addition to her niece, Roberta Moreton Crawford of Baton Rouge, La., Alma is survived by her nephew, William F. Crawford and his wife, Anne, of Brookhaven, Miss., and their son, Michael; several Moreton cousins and their families, including Charles and Betty Moreton of Houston; and caregiver and friend, Anne Whittington Harrison of Fort Worth.

Norma Morris
RICHLAND HILLS- Norma Whitehead Morris, 76, of Richland Hills and formerly of Cisco, passed away Friday, June 10, 2010 in North Richland Hills Hospital. Services were held at 2:00 PM Sunday, June 13, 2010 in Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco officiated by Bishop Ky White, with interment in Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Norma was born in Haskell, Texas on March 1, 1934 to Archie and Maggie Lou (Hart) Whitehead. She married Rufus (Ace) Morris on December 15, 1951 in Cisco, he preceded her in death on April 2, 2003. She was a member of the Church of Christ, a homemaker, a retired tax consultant and a member of American Business Women’s Association. Survivors include her son, Charles (Chip) Morris of Euless; daughters, Debra Williams and husband Doug of Houston, Monica Bradberry and husband Shane of Burleson; sister, Joan Marie Johns and husband Jeff of North Richland Hills; grandchildren, April MacDonald, Kyle MacDonald, Dustin Morris, Kalei Bradberry and Rylei Bradberry; great grandchildren, Davionna Leonard and Braden Waters.

Dorothy Lorensen
Dorothy Person Lorensen, born August 22, 1920, in Sibley, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 13, 2010. It was an appropriate day appointed for her to meet her Savior, as she loved celebrating Her Lord’s goodness every Lord’s Day. What greater goodness to celebrate than to be granted entrance into God’s Holy presence for all eternity! A service is scheduled for 10:00 am Saturday, June 19, 2010 at Piersall Benton Chapel, 733 Butternut St with a burial to follow at Elmwood Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Friday evening at the funeral home. On May 29, 1946, Dorothy Person married Wayne (Larry) Lorensen of Melvin, Iowa, and after training at Northwestern Bible College in Minneapolis, MN and Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, TX, they moved their young family to San Jose, Costa Rica in 1956, where they served for 40 years as missionaries and eventually Central American directors for Child Evangelism Fellowship. Mrs. Lorensen had primary duties for training others how to teach the Good News of the Gospel to young children, working with churches of all denominations and training teachers and teachers of teachers. After returning to Abilene, TX from the mission field in 1968 due to her husband’s ongoing health problems, Mrs. Lorensen continued to serve her Lord through translation work, learning to use a computer to create manuals for teacher training in Spanish. She also traveled throughout the United States and Central and South America teaching many training courses, touching lives and future generations through her faithful service. Dorothy Lorensen is survived by her children, Tim Lorensen and his wife Nancy of Houston, TX, Beth Valka of Olden, TX, and Becky Armstrong and her husband Ron of Olden, TX. Seven grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren will all miss her as well. She has been re-united with those who preceded her in death, her parents, siblings Ruth Lorensen and Dick Person, and her beloved husband. Her many friends and family are welcome to join her in her new home - there’s plenty of room! Dorothy Lorensen served her Lord every moment of her life, but her eternal reward came not through her own great works, but the through the life, death, and resurrection of her precious Lord Jesus Christ. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Dorothy to Child Evangelism Fellowship, PO Box 348, Warrenton, MO 63383-0348. Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com.

Bob Townsend
CISCO- Bob Townsend, 80, died May 16, 2010. A memorial graveside service for family and friends will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 19, 2010 at the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco. Bobby was born August 1, 1929 in Cisco, to Jack and Fannie Townsend. He attended school in Cisco and after graduating, he joined the Navy, and was stationed in Korea. He owned Townsend Sales, where he sold wholesale electronics. He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Townsend; mother, Fannie Townsend; and sister, Myra Hennington. Survivors are one son, Jeff Townsend and wife Sharon of Austin; a daughter, Julianne Webster and husband, Mike from Waxahachie; five grandchildren; one brother, Rex Townsend of Burleson; two sisters, Drucilla Blanding of Cisco and Darlene Crumpler of Abilene.

Frances Floyd
Frances Floyd, age 69, of Cross Plains, Texas, passed away Monday, June 7, 2010, in John Peter Smith Hospital in Ft. Worth, Texas. Graveside services were held at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, June 10, 2010, at Belle Plaine Cemetery in Callahan County. Theresa Baker will deliver the eulogy. Services are under the direction of Parker Funeral Home of Baird, Texas. A visitation with family was from 5:30 until 7:00 P.M. on Wednesday evening at the funeral home in Baird. Frances was born in Casa Grande, Arizona, on April 22, 1941. She married Silas Ray Floyd in 1969 in Tucson, Arizona. She had lived in Cross Plains, Texas, for the past 18 years. Frances was a homemaker and loved to fish and go camping with her grandchildren. Survivors include 3 daughters, Theresa Baker and Esther Floyd, both of Cross Plains, and Lydia Palos and husband Robert of Fort Worth; 3 sons, Frankie Floyd and wife Charlene of Cisco, and Waylon Floyd and wife Lisa of Cross Plains, and Robert Floyd of Cross Plains; a brother, Carl Clark Baker and wife Jackie of Muskogee, Oklahoma;8 grandchildren, Tonya Spelbring and husband Robert Nettles, Joseph O. Baker, Quentin O. Floyd, Angel Floyd and Jennifer Burns, all of Cross Plains, Briana R. Palos of Ft. Worth, and Alicia C. Floyd and Sara Duck, both of Cisco; and 2 great-grandchildren, Jolena J. Spelbring and Rowdy O. Nettles, both of Cross Plains. She was preceded in death by her husband, Silas Ray Floyd, her mother Margaret Baker, a sister, Esther Spaulding, and a brother, Robert (Bobby) Baker.

Mary Hightower
CISCO - Mary Edna Hightower, 86, of Cisco passed away on Monday, June 7, 2010, in Eastland. She was bon on December 30, 1923 in Coleman to Thomas Luther and Ollie Louise (Zirkle) Strickland. Mrs. Hightower married Carey Hightower on June 1, 1946 in Big Springs, Texas. He preceded her in death on January 2, 2004. She was a florist and had worked for many years with Philpot Flower Shop in Cisco for many years. Mrs. Hightower is survived by a son and daughter-in-law: Cary Wayne and Avonda Hightower of Fort Worth and a daughter and son-in-law: Katy and Fred Rush of Flower Mound. She is also survived by two brothers: Eddie Strickland of Burkett and Sonny Strickland of Fredericksburg and eight grandchildren: Jason Hightower, Mandy Hightower, Christ Hightower, Eric Rush, Megan Rush, Melissa Rush, Kaitlyn Rush, and Kari Rush. Mrs. Hightower is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and three brothers: Jack Strickland, Bill Strickland, and Tommy Strickland, and a sister: Norene Rhoades. Visitation was at 9:00 AM Friday, June 11, 2010, at Summers-Chamber Funeral Home. Funeral Services were held at 10:00 AM Friday, June 11, 2010 at Summers-Chamber Chapel with Rev. Justin Kreig officiating. Graveside Services were held at 12:00 noon at Burkett Cemetery in Burkett with interment to follow. Memorials may be made to American Heart Association.

Alvin Dale
EASTLAND – Alvin Earl Dale was born January 25, 1967 in Las Cruces, New Mexico to Mae Sandlin and the late George Dale. He died June 8, 2010 in Bossier City, Louisiana. His family moved to Carbon, Texas when he was a teenager and had attended Carbon High School. Alvin’s hobbies included hunting, fishing, playing golf and watching all kinds of sports on TV. Above all, he truly cherished the time he spent with his family. Alvin worked for H&H X-ray at the time of his death, but in the past worked for Desert X-ray, Eagle X-Ray as well as many, many years at EAA Iron in Eastland. Alvin was preceded in death by his father George Dale, and his maternal grandparents David Miller and Opal Hamilton. Alvin is survived by his wife Misty Sharp of Eastland; his beloved mother and stepfather, Mae and Jim Sandlin of Carbon; his son Andrew Dale and his daughters, Alli Dale and Miranda Dale, of Eastland. His stepchildren, Tyler Sharp, Jared Bibby and McKenzie Copeland, all of Eastland; brothers, David Dale of Carbon, Ricky Dale, and wife Robbie, of Ranger, Jason Dale and wife, Jami, of Gorman; stepmother, Vickie Dale and step sister Holly Casteen of Las Vegas, New Mexico; nephews, Justin, Jarod, Kenny, Brandon, and George Dale; nieces, Tatum and Dustee Grace Dale, Chesnie Dale, McKenzie Krantz and Hattie and Heather Casteen.

Barry VanCleave
Barry VanCleave, 67 of Lubbock passed away Monday, June 7, 2010 at Hendrick Medical Center. Graveside services were held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, June 9, 2010 in Oakwood Cemetery. Mr. VanCleave was born in Cisco on June 19, 1941 to Lester Bryon and Willie Flonetta (Harris) VanCleave. He was a member of Memorial Baptist Church in Lubbock. He is survived by a brother, Larry VanCleave of Lubbock. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Tad.

Richard Corbell
Richard ( Dick ) H. Corbell, 70, of China Springs, TX passed away Saturday, May 22, 2010 in Waco, TX. Dick was born August 31, 1939 in Eastland , TX to Louie Corbell and Margaret (Hudson) Corbell. He graduated from Eastland High School where he played and excelled at football. After high school, Mr. Corbell served his country in the U.S. Army and then later retired from the United States Postal Service. He will be missed greatly by all those who knew him. Mr. Corbell is survived by his son, Richard Corbell and his wife, Tammie of Rowlett and his granddaughter Payton Corbell.

Jackie Whitlock
Jackie Lou Whitlock, age 74 of DeLeon passed away Monday, June 7, 2010 at the Odyssey Hospice House in Fort Worth. Services were held at 2:00 P. M. Thursday, June 10, 2010 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Casey Clement officiating. Burial was in Alameda Cemetery. Jackie was the oldest of four children, she was born August 19, 1935 in Gorman, Texas to Lloyd Alvin Whitlock and Georgia Augusta (Wimberley) Whitlock. She was a nurse’s aide at the Gorman Nursing Home for many years. She lived most of her life in Desdemona, but moved to the Senior Citizens Hotel in DeLeon a few years ago. She was a member of the DeLeon Church of Christ. Jackie is survived by two nephews, Bryan Whitlock and wife, Sonya of Glen Rose and Blake Whitlock and wife, Melissa of Granbury; aunt, Edith Quinn of Mineral Wells; and five great nieces and nephews, Shaelynn Whitlock, Danielle Whitlock, Dylan Whitlock, Krystal Whitlock and Kayla Whitlock as well as several cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, and three brothers, Charlie Ray Whitlock, Roy Lee Whitlock and Earl Wayne Whitlock.

Lois Eaton
EASTLAND – Lois Laverne Petree Eaton, 78, of Eastland passed away at home on June 10, 2010. Funeral services are pending with Edwards Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Eastland Cemetery. Lois was born January 17, 1932 in Carbon, Texas to Charlie Petree and Irene (Maynard) Petree. Lois graduated from Morton Valley High School in 1949. She married William T. (W.T.) Eaton on November 23, 1950. Lois was employed in manufacturing for many years, but spent her later years as a housewife. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She always had time for family and friends, giving unconditional love and guidance. Lois and W.T. loved working in their yard, it was always immaculate and enjoyed by all. Every Christmas the yard was always beautifully decorated and viewed by many children and adults. They also displayed a Christmas village with over 100 houses. It was always a lot of work but they said “if it put a smile on one child’s face it was worth the work”. In addition to keeping a beautiful yard, Lois enjoyed cooking, sports, traveling, shopping and most of all her grandkids and great grandkids. As she battled cancer her faith never faltered. She was strong willed and never gave up. She will always be remembered for her strength and courage. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie Petree and Irene Maynard Petree, her husband, William T. Eaton and her brother, Jack Doyle Petree. Lois is survived by her children, Clinton and Janet Eaton, Sandra and Robert Mangum and David Eaton and Jill Stephens, all of Eastland, twelve grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Norma Whitehead Morris, formerly of Cisco, passed away Friday in the North Richland Hills Hospital. Services are pending with Kimbrough Funeral Home in Cisco.

Alvin Parrish
Alvin Clarence Parrish, 87, of Sweetwater, formerly of Cross Plains, died Wednesday, June 9, 2010 in Big Spring. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 12, 2010 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home in Cross Plains with Pastor Rodney Bell officiating. Burial followed in the Cross Plains Cemetery. Mr. Parrish was born October 28, 1922 to George O. and Ester Estelle (Wilkerson) Parrish in Pear Valley, Texas. He married Edna Carroll on December 18, 1946 in Cottonwood, Texas. He was in the heat of WW II with the U.S. Navy. Alvin and Edna made their home in Sweetwater where he was employed by Price Construction as a welder. He was a Baptist and a member of the VFW. He is survived by his son, Allen Parrish and wife Pat of Big Spring; daughter, Melissa Sellers and husband Brandon of Abilene; sisters, Velma Jones Lee of Cross Plains; Lou Grider and husband Dick of Cross Plains; Patsy Robinson of Grand Prairie; brother, Gorman Parrish and wife Lou of Abilene; eleven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Edna; daughter, Linda Linebaugh; son, Harold Parrish; brothers, Willie George Parrish, Raymond Parrish. The family received friends and relatives for a time of visitation on Friday, June 11th from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Elva Notgrass
CISCO - Elva Jane Notgrass, 93, of Cisco passed from this life Saturday, June 5, 2010, in Eastland. Services were held at 3:00 PM Sunday, June 6, 2010 at Kimbrough Funeral Home officiated by Milton Underwood. Burial followed in Nimrod Cemetery. Elva was born September 11, 1916 in Nimrod to Oscar Earl and Lillian (Ashabranner) Pierce. She married James Daniel (Dan) Notgrass July 19, 1935 in Eastland he preceded her in death August 19, 1997. Elva is survived her sister, Burliene Shafer of Eastland; nephews, Joe Pierce and wife Vicki of Eastland, and Roy Notgrass and wife Shirley of Duncanville.

Genevieve 'Gene' Davis
RANGER – Genevieve “Gene” Davis, 81, of Ranger, passed away Friday, June 4, 2010 in Eastland. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Ranger with burial following in Evergreen Cemetery with Ronny Guess officiating. Gene was born in Bedford, Ohio on January 9, 1929 to Howard and Christy (Smith) Buckley. She has been in Ranger for many years and was a homemaker. She was preceded in death by her husband, Norman Davis and her first husband, Ron Courtney. Mrs. Davis is survived by her children, Donnie Courtney and wife, Glenda, of Ranger, Ronna Harvey and husband, Don, of Phoenix, AZ, Denise Boutwell and husband, Randy, of League City, Dawn Rodriguez and husband, Joe, of Fort Worth and Glenn Davis and wife, Inez, of California; grandchildren, Cari Courtney, Scott Gwilt, Dean Gwilt, Amy Rose, Kristy Stiles, Samantha Boutwell, Terry Davis, Heather Davis, Nathan Davis, Bryan Davis and Eric Davis; and fifteen great-grandchildren.

Frank Schlaepfer
Frank Robert Schlaepfer, 89, of Abilene, formerly of Cisco, passed away June 6, 2010, in Abilene. A graveside service, officiated by Reverend Richard Maxwell, will be at 2:00 PM Thursday, June 10, 2010 in the Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene. Visitation will be 5-7:00 PM Wednesday at the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco. Frank was born December 8, 1920, to Lewis James and Mittie Mae (Turknett) Schlaepfer in Cisco. He graduated from Cisco High School and Cisco Junior College. He joined the U. S. Army and served as a military police officer in the Criminal Investigation Division. Frank retired after 25 years of service to his country. Frank and Donna Ruth Shawn were married October 6, 1983, in Cisco. Frank served as a Deputy Sheriff for Eastland County and was a life member of the Texas Sheriff’s Association. He was a member of the Disabled Veterans of America, and worked for Disability Resources in Zapata, Texas. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Cisco. Survivors include his wife, Donna, of Abilene; son, Frank Schlaepfer, Jr. of North Carolina; daughters, Mary Tetmeyer and husband, Gerard, of San Antonio, Sandy Miller & husband, Jeff, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Anna Jacobs & Delbert Pitchford of Ft. Myers, Florida, and Mittie Carr and husband, D. J., of Ft. Myers, Florida; grandchildren, Abigale Tetmeyer, Sarah Jacobs, Gunner Jacobs, D. J. Carr, Alex Carr, Alica Carr and Alexis Miller. He was preceded in death by two daughters, Nancy & Francie and two sons, James and Robert.

Donna Moore
MORAN- Donna English Moore, 76, of Moran died Thursday, June 3, 2010 in an Albany Care Center. Graveside services were held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 7, 2010 at the Moran Cemetery with Rev. Jack Clack officiating under the direction of Godfrey-Neese Funeral Home of Albany. Mrs. Moore was born August 24, 1933 in Gorman, Texas to William and Naomi Criswell English. She lived her early childhood in Moran, Texas. She also attended the University of Texas in Austin. She met her husband, Bill Moore in Austin. They were married in 1952. She worked for the US Government, Farmers Home Administration in Union County, North Carolina. She retired as a County Supervisor in 1996. After retirement, Donna and Bill moved to her childhood home place in Moran and built a house in 1997. She enjoyed working in her yard and spending time with the cattle operation of the ranch. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Naomi English; and her husband Bill Moore in 2008. Survivors are her children, Leslie Rivers of Monroe, N.C. and Shof Moore of Abilene; and her grandchildren, William Rivers, Tanner Moore, and Shelby Moore.

Linda Beeler
FORT WORTH- Linda Jane Beeler, 65, passed away Thursday, June 3, 2010. Graveside service was held at 10 a.m. Monday, June 7, 2010 at Greenwood Memorial Park. Visitation was held Sunday at Greenwood Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Huntington’s Disease Society of America, Texas Affiliate, P.O. Box 270261, Flower Mound, Texas 75027. Linda was born October 18, 1944, in Waco, Texas, to Tom and Bessie Garrett. She married her sweetheart, Tom, on September 2, 1963. She was a great mother and grandmother. Linda will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Survivors are her husband, Tommy Beeler; son, Gary Beeler and wife, Kelly; daughter, Melissa Walker; and grandchildren, Caleb, Kayla, Colton, Sarah, Katherine, Brady and Cody.

Margaret 'Maggie' Weingrad
HOISINGTON, KS.- Margaret Ann “Maggie” Weingrad, 68, died May 26, 2010 at home in Hoisington, Kansas. She was born October 13, 1941 at Blackduck, Minnesota to Louis & Esther (Schippers) Arlt. Married Robert “Bob” Weingrad January 4, 1963 at Kay, Oklahoma. He died February 27 1982. She worked for Wesley Medical Center and other various hospitals as an RN. She was also a traveling nurse. She received her nursing degree from William and Mary College, Wichita. Mrs. Weingrad was a Hoisington, Kansas resident since 2008 coming from Great Bend, Kansas, Wichita, Kansas, and Cisco, Texas. She was a member of AARP and various nursing associations. Survivors are one son, Mark Weingrad and wife Rhonda, Great Bend, KS; one daughter, Lori Taylor and husband Ken, Wichita, KS; one brother, William Arlt and wife Lana, Rising Star, TX; 6 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren. She was preceded in passing by her parents, husband, and brother, Richard Arlt. Memorial Service was held Monday, June 7, 2010 at 1:00 pm at Bryant Funeral Home. The Reverend William F. Johnson officiating. Memorial Fund: In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the Great Bend Zoo, in care of Bryant Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net
Arrangements by Bryant Funeral Home 1425 Patton Road Great Bend, Kansas 67530

Nancy 'Sissy' Branahm
BRECKENRIDGE- Nancy Ann “Sissy” Branahm, 61, of Palestine and formerly of Moran died Friday, June 4, 2010 at her residence. Funeral services with Rev. Jack Clack and Rev. Bobby Kacal officiating were held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, June 8, 2010 in the Moran Cemetery. Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home directed. Sissy was born February 9, 1949 in Moran, Texas to Rollin Fuller and Nettie Bartee Fuller. She married Pete Branham on April 5, 1991 in Moran. She was a Para-Professional. Survivors are her husband, Pete Branham of Palestine; daughter, Sunny Howard of Austin; step-daughters, Christie Branham of Palestine and Misty Garza of Fort Gilmer, New York; granddaughter, Madelyn Branham of Fort Gilmer, New York; sister, Donna Funderburgh of Albany; nephew, Donny Funderburgh of Joshua; sister, Della Brooks of Baird; and many cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Rollin and Nettie Fuller. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

Nelda Hill
BRECKENRIDGE –Nelda Ruth Harrelson Hill, 61, of Breckenridge, passed away Monday, May 31, 2010 at her residence. Services were held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 4, 2010 at the Bethany Baptist Church in Breckenridge directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland. Burial followed in Nimrod Cemetery in Eastland County. The family received friends Thursday evening from 6 until 8 P.M. at the church. Mrs. Hill was born on September 14, 1948 in Gorman, TX to Oliver Thomas and Lillian Lucille (Stansell) Harrelson. She graduated from Cisco High School and Cisco Jr. College. She married Woody Hill on June 21, 1968 in Cisco, Texas. She was the former owner and operator of Kountry Kousins Crafts in Breckenridge. She was preceded in death by her parents. Survivors include her husband, Woody Hill of Breckenridge; a son, James Erik Hill of Breckenridge; grandchildren, Sachariah James, Noah Wiley and McKenna Angelina Hill; brothers, Phillip Harrelson and wife Marilyn of Wellman, TX, Rodney Harrelson and wife Diane of Ladera Ranch, CA, Jimmy Harrelson and wife Sandra of Terrell, TX; sister, Sharon Jones and husband Gene of Cleburne, TX; and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Charles Pamplin, Cotton Kinnard, Marlin Williams, Erik Hill, Larry Douglas, Randy Tait and Johnny Stoker. To honor Nelda’s memory the family requests memorials may be made to Bethany Baptist Church.

Linda Fee Fairchild
(1928-2010)
Departed life peacefully on April 30, 2010 for eternal rest. She was the loving daughter of George and Kathryne Fee of Cisco, Texas. Linda was a University of Texas alumnus. She came to Houston in 1952 married Raymond Fairchild, made a home and raised a family. She retired from her Real Estate business of 35 years in 1999. Linda was active in her church, community, and her many interests. She is survived by her children, Charles, William and Katie, a brother, Fr. George Fee of Capistrano Beach, California and three grandchildren, David, Austin and Riley and great grandsons Noah and Tavis. Linda was known for her “upbeat” and positive personality as well as a great sense of humor. She adored her children and grandchildren (as they adored her). She will be missed. A graveside service will be held at the Cisco Cemetery June 12, 2010 in the afternoon.

Dorothy White
Dorothy Faye (Tidwell) White departed this earth for her eternal home on June 1, 2010 at the age of 78 years. Funeral Services will be held on June 5, 2010 at 10:00 A.M. at the First Christian Church in Eastland conducted by Rev. Jim Wright followed by interment in the Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. Dorothy was born on September 8, 1931, in Fort Worth, Texas, the first daughter of Tyra Webster Tidwell and Lena Ray (Owen) Tidwell. Educated in Fort Worth schools on the North Side, she married Dudley Gene Molder, and to this union they had four children - Delena Faye, De Wayne Gene, Denise Gaylene, and Dale Ray. She was a loving mother, always working to help support the family. She worked in the banking industry as a teller and bookkeeper attending banking schools and seminars to enhance her experience. During her career she was employed by Fort Worth Bank of Commerce, Abilene First State Bank, and First National Bank of Cisco. On May 26, 1962, she married Lt. Col. Morris D. White who was on active duty at Dyess AFB in Abilene. Upon his retirement they moved the family to their ranch near Cisco. They lived at Vallecita Lake, Colorado, for 18 years and Lake-O-The Pines near Jefferson, Texas, before moving to The Woodlands Assisted Living in Eastland in December, 2008. They were active members of First Christian Church. Dorothy enjoyed singing, playing bridge, traveling, creating egg artistry, spending time with family and friends as well as being involved with club and community activities. She previously was active in Credit Women’s International, Dyess Officers Wives Club, the NFL Charity Ski Tournament, and was one of the founding members of the Cisco Civic League serving in various offices in each of those clubs. She was also instrumental in the effort that led to the change of the name Main Street in Cisco to Conrad Hilton Avenue. Dorothy was predeceased by her parents, stepmother, Callie Tidwell, the father of the children, Dudley Molder, and her brother, Tommy Tidwell. Survivors include her husband of 48 years, Ret. Lt Col. Morris D. White, daughters, Delena (husband Bob) Murphy of Land’O Lakes, Florida, and Denise (husband Tim) Shannon of Paige, Sons, De Wayne (wife Coni) Molder of Plano, Dale Ray Molder of Houston, and stepson, Doug (wife Carolyn) White of Eastland, sisters, Joyce (husband Roy) Ethridge of Jefferson, and Doris Martin of Stephenville, 13 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends. The family would wish to thank the Caregivers at The Woodlands, Dr. Alan Mickish, and Lighthouse Hospice for the compassionate and loving care that was shown to Mrs. White and her family.

Alta Jobe
Alta Lavelle Jobe, age 77 of Gorman, passed away Tuesday, June 1, 2010 at the Abilene Regional Medical Center. Services were held at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, June 10, 2010 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Jason Wilder officiating. Burial was in Gorman Cemetery. Lavelle was born March 12, 1933 in Gorman to Alton B. Watson and Anna Lois (Echols) Watson. She married Doyle Lee “Pinky” Jobe on March 11, 1951 in Waukegan, IL. He preceded her in death on August 8, 2001. She was a homemaker, art teacher and a member of the Gorman Church of Christ. Survivors include, daughter, Amy Wood and husband, Lee of Gorman; mother, Annie Watson of Gorman; three grandchildren, Leslie Wood and wife, Andrea of Seminole, Stephanie Catoe and husband, Scott of Fort Worth and Melissa Walston and husband, Travis of Fort Worth and 5 great grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Leisa Jobe of Athens and aunt, Velda Baze of Gorman and other family members. She was preceded in death by her father, a son, Rex Jobe and a brother, Dwaine Watson.

James Miears
STEPHENVILLE- James Edward Miears, 85, of Stephenville, Texas, formerly of DeLeon died Tuesday, June 1, 2010, at his residence. He was born November 22, 1924 in Comanche Co., Texas to Clarence Miears and Ruth Eudora Jones. He was married to Ann Lindley on March 7, 1953 in Brownwood, Texas. He taught school in DeLone 14 years and later was employed with Texas Department of Agriculture as a chemist until his retirement; member of Brush Garage Gang; loved gardening and working in his yard; collector of arrowheads; member of DeLeon First Baptist Church. Survivors are his wife, Ann Miears of Stephenville; two daughters, Lesa Dossey of Breckenridge and husband Roman of Frisco; sister, Billie Ruth Floyd of Big Lake; six grandchildren, Jarrett Dossey, Clint Dossey, Ashley Reynolds, Jenna Reynolds, Brady Reynolds and Sterling James Brenia. Services were held Saturday, June 5, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. at DeLeon First Baptist Church. Burial was at Desdemona Cemetery with Jackie Auvenshine officiating. Services were under the direction of Nowlin Anders Funeral Home in DeLeon. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

William 'Billy' McDaniel
CISCO- William Joe “Billy Mac” McDaniel, 58, of Cisco passed away on May 29, 2010 in Cisco. Memorial Services will be held on June 5, 2010, Saturday, at 11:00 AM at the Victory Assembley of God Church in Cisco. Billy Mac was born on October 21, 1951 in Marble Falls, Texas to Andrew and Lucy (Glenn) McDaniel. He was a Painting Contractor, like reading, cooking, fishing, and watching movies. Billy Mac is survived by his children: Heather and Heath McDaniel, Brandy McDaniel, Brandy Branch, and Nicole Hays. He is also survived by a brother James McDaniel and two sisters: Thelma Joyce Galyean and Sharon McDaniel. Services under the direction of Summers Chambers Funeral Home in Cisco.

Jerry Bobinger
Jerry Stephen Bobinger passed away on May 26, 2010 at a hospice in Palestine, Texas after an illness of cancer. Services were held at the Chapel of Angels by the Lake at Forest Park, Houston, Texas on May 29, 2010. Interment followed at Forest Park Cemetery with Rev. John Mark Benson, of Sagemont Baptist Church officiating. Stephen was born January 31, 1958 to Jerry Overland and Vera Joann Bobinger in Norfolk, VA. He later spent his childhood in Long Beach, Mississippi on the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. He traveled in many states with family before moving to Houston, TX. where he spent the last 40 years. He attended Helms, Jackson Jr. High and Austin High School. He was a member of the Naval Sea Cadets. He worked many years in Water Blasting forming his own business as “Exterior Structural Restoration”. He worked on many of the high rise buildings that you see in Houston today. He was preceded in death by his father Jerry O. Bobinger and a special niece, Jamie Lynn Bobinger. He is survived by his mother, Vera Joann Woodburn and step father, George B. Woodburn of Ranger, TX; two sons, Steven Ray Bobinger of College Station, TX. and Jerry Stephen Bobinger, Jr. of The Woodlands, TX; one daughter, Natajia Bobinger of The Woodlands, TX; two grandchildren, Jaden and Oliver of The Woodlands; one brother, Michael Glenn Bobinger and wife Vania of Ranger; three sisters, Linda Jo Altenbern and husband David of Houston, Laneta Gayle Bobinger of The Woodlands, TX. and Diana Lynn Samson and husband Ryan of Spring, TX. He is also survived by Debra Ryes, mother of Steven Ray Bobinger and Katrina Feathers, mother of Natajai and Jerry Stephen, Jr.; four nieces, Kellie Bobinger, Amanda Cock, Catherine Schnelle and Molly Samson; three nephews, Joseph Legrow, Jonathan Schnelle, and Benjamin Samson; two special aunts, Shirley Durden and Betty Gorsline. Many more aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He will be missed by all. The following served as pallbearers: George Woodburn, David Alternbern, James Schnelle, Ryan Samson, Joseph Legrow and Daniel Barber. Donations may be made to the National Cancer Society in his name.

Wanda Pate
RANGER- El-Wanda Pate, 69, of Ranger passed away Friday, May 28, 2010 in Abilene. Services were held Monday, May 31, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at Merriman Baptist Church. Burial followed at Bullock Cemetery. Visitation was held Sunday, May 30, 2010 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home. Wanda was born January 18, 1941 in Rotan, TX to R.P. and Vivian (Jenkins) Taylor. She married Leland Pate on February 6, 1959. Wanda was a loving and caring person who loved to spend time with her friends and family. She loved to knit and crochet and was a prayer warrior. She will be missed by all that knew her. Pallbearers were Tony Marsh, Odie Taylor, Rusty Kirk, J.D. Wilson, Wesley Marsh and Chance Wilson. Honorary pallbearers will be Randy Taylor, Stacy Kirk and Lucas Pate.
She is preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Leann Wilson. She is survived by her husband, Leland Pate, son, Raymond Pate and wife Bobbie of Abilene and son-in-law, Jimmy Don Wilson; brother Odell Taylor and wife Nancy of Brownwood; sisters, Leta Marsh and husband L.H. of Abilene and Tempie Kirk of Wylie; grandchildren, Misty Conklin and Tiffany Conklin of Odessa, J.D. Wilson and wife Libby of Olden, Kristin Lee and husband Kevin Jr. of Ranger, Lucas Pate and wife Amanda of Bryan,TX, Chance Wilson of Ranger and Dnae Pate of Bryan, TX; 10 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and nephew, Jan Pate of Ranger.

Master Sgt. Donald Jaynes
Master Sgt. Donald Jaynes, 76, of Rising Star, Texas passed away on Sunday May 23, 2010 in Rising Star, Texas. Donald was born on December 6, 1933 in Rising Star, Texas to Weldon Fielder and Fannie Pearl Harms-Jaynes. He married Frances Del Smith on June 9, 1956 in Salinas, CA. They celebrated 45 years of marriage before she preceded him in death April 26, 2001. He married Jean Walker on July 22, 2007 in Rising Star, Texas. He served in the United States Army for 20 years during the Korean War, he was in C Troop; 9th Recon Squad; 1st Cav. Div. (DMZ). During the Vietnam War he was in Co CC (Swamp Rates; 1st Battalion; 18th Brigade; 1st INF Div. (Big Red One)). He was a Baptist and a Mason. He in the community for 17years. He is survived by his wife, Jean Jaynes of Rising Star, Texas; 3 sons Michael Weldon Jaynes and his wife Elma; Donald Dayon Jaynes and his wife, Emily, Roy Michael Jaynes and his wife, Sabrina all of Rising Star; 2 daughters, Marsha Dawn Disidora and her husband Michael of West Virgina; Jessica Dean Owens and her husband, Robert of Rising Star; 2 stepsons, Andy and Skeeter Herbert, 9 grandchildren; 9 step-grandchildren; 5 step-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; 1st wife Frances; brother, Danny Jaynes; 2 step-children, Stacy and Tracy; 2 grandchildren, Braden and Aimee Jaynes. Arrangements by Higginbotham Funeral Home Rising Star, Texas

Rufus Lewis
Rufus Manford Lewis, age 77 of Desdemona, passed away Thursday, May 27, 2010 at the Comanche County Medical Center. Graveside services will be 2:00 P.M. Sunday, May 30, 2010 at the Desdemona Cemetery with Denver Rainey officiating. Mr. Lewis was born April 14, 1933 in Gorman to Robert Leo Lewis and Grace (Lane) Lewis. He married Mary Ruth Sharp on September 8, 1951 in Desdemona. She preceded him in death on September 7, 2008. Mr. Lewis was a farmer and a member of the Bride of Christ Church. He had lived in this area most of his life. Survivors include four sons, Melvin Lewis and wife, Connie of Desdemona, Allan Lewis and wife, Kara of Eastland, Rocky Lewis and wife, Vicki of Dublin and Bit Lewis of Desdemona; one brother, Joe Carroll Lewis and wife, Dodie of Desdemona; three sisters, Zoe Shoemaker and husband Joe of DeLeon, June Lewis of Ranger and Linda McLearen and husband, W.R. of Desdemona; eleven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, David Lewis, two brothers, Wesley Lewis and Gary Leo Lewis and one sister, Elaine Battenfield.

Herman Boswell
Herman Lee Boswell departed Saturday, May 22, 2010 at 6:05 p.m. He left behind a legacy of integrity and compassion. His accomplishments were numerous including building a thriving real estate company from the ground up and mentoring many real estate agents who then went on to establish successful companies of their own. But most importantly, Herman loved to help people become successful in their work. He guided and encouraged many during the years and his advice was invaluable to those he touched. He improved the lives of those around him. He loved people for who they were and set an example of honesty and integrity in all his dealings. He was born in Whitney, Texas, November 24, 1930 and raised in Sipe Springs. He decided one day at the ripe age of 11, while hoeing cotton for a dollar a day, that he would someday leave Sipe Springs and create a different life for himself. He graduated Rising Star High School and attended Tarleton State in Stephenville. He served inn the armed forces and was stationed in Garmish Pattenkirchen in Germany rising to the rank of Master Sargeant. There he met the love of his life, Polly, and they were married while in the service. Before his tour of duty was up, they had their only child, Jerry. Herman came to Arlington in 1955 to work in the then new GM factory, he soon learned he was not cut out to be a linesman. He pursued and created a successful business in insurance then later decided to invest in real estate. He started his first real estate business, Herman Boswell Real Estate, in 1965. He soon became a major force in the real estate industry. Herman was known for handshake deals that were honored no matter what. His word was his bond, and once given always honored. His business grew to five offices in Arlington. He received many honors from Century 21, Red Carpet and Gallery of Homes. Century 21 Herman Boswell was in the top five Century 21 offices in the nation for several years. He personally bought or invested in over 100 transactions in the greater Arlington area, showing an insight into trends few could see. His many honors and awards included the Edgar Bird Award, Realtor of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, and served as President of the Arlington Board of Realtors. In the great 80’s collapse of the savings and loans, Herman experienced severe hardship, while many others filed bankruptcy, Herman honored every debt on every project he had. He worked literally 7 days a week to make sure his company survived and that all the projects he had were successful in the most dreadful economic times Texas had experienced since the Great Depression. Herman made sure his salespeople stayed productive and successful. He never cut back on advertising. He never wavered. One bank president later came to him and told him that his loan was the largest loan on their books and if it had failed the bank have failed. And while many other banks did fail, this bank survives to this day. He emerged from this experience more successful than ever. He changed his strategy and consolidated his offices into one central location boasting one of the most productive and happy sales force in the metroplex. His longtime friend R. L. Porter once said of him that, “Herman could have been one of the wealthiest men in the metroplex if he were willing to do less for others than he did.” He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Jerry and Caroline, his grandsons Ryan and wife Tiffany, Jonathan and wife Diana, and his beloved great-grandson Tyler James, sister-in-law, Virginia Boswell, Chelsey Auten and wife Wanda, and numerous other relatives and friends. Preceded in death by parents, Ruby and Roy Boswell and brother Travis Boswell and wife Polly. The viewing was held Wednesday, May 26 at Moore Funeral Home, Arlington. The funeral service was held Thursday, May 27, 2010 at First Baptist Church, Arlington.

Bobby Townsend
Bobby Jack Townsend died Sunday, May 16, 2010 in Dallas, after a short illness. Bobby Jack Townsend grew up and finished school in Cisco. He was born August 1, 1929 near the Byers community. They moved to Cisco soon afterwards. He was born to Andrew Jackson (Jack) Townsend and Tannie Mae Warren. They had five children. Mr. Leon Manor owned the Corner Drug Store where Bobby worked as a soda-jerk for 3 years. Mr. Manor was a wonderful mentor for Bob. His teacher, Mr. Woods (who taught Algebra) also was a “big brother” to Bob. After he finished high school, he went right into the Navy and technical study. He spent a short time in Korea. Bob graduated from high school in 1947. He married Jacque Orr in the middle of the 50’s. They had 2 children, Jeff and Juliann. Bob also had several grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Bob loved his school years and his fellow students! No thing pleased him more than class reunions if he could be there. A memorial service or get-together is planned for Bob possibly around the middle of June. Watch the Press for further information. Survivors are a brother, Rex Townsend and wife Thylis of Burleson; sisters, Drucilla Blanding of Cisco and Darlene Crumpler and Ronnie of Abilene. He will be missed.

Edwin Gibson, Sr.
Edwin George Gibson, Sr. passed away November 1, 2009 in Tampa, Florida. Edwin’s final resting place (June 12) in the New Gordon Cemetery in Gordon, Texas. Edwin was born in Thurber, Texas on March 15, 1920 to parents “Lum” and Leona Gibson. He attended schools in Thurber and Strawn, graduating from Gordon High School in 1939. After serving in the military, Edwin enrolled in John Tarleton College, graduating in 1947. He attended Texas A&M where he graduated in 1949 with a degree in electrical engineering. Edwing was employed by General Electric from 1949 until his retirement in 1981. He is survived by his wife Jannie Wylie; three sons and their families; and several nieces and nephews.

Davis Thomas
HOUSTON- David M. Thomas, 57, of Houston, formerly of Abilene, died Thursday, May 20, 2010 in Midland. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, May 24, 2010 at Hamil Family Funeral Chapel in Abilene, with Pastor Phillip Thomas officiating. Burial followed in Elmwood Memorial Park. David was born in Ranger, Texas to Pat and Dorotha Jean Thomas on May 29, 1952. He was a graduate of Abilene High School, Class of 1970, and attended San Angelo State University. He married his high school sweetheart, Carla Key, on June 22, 1974. He worked as a salesman for Motorola and Glenayre for 19 years. Survivors are his wife, Carla of Houston; son, Brad and Mary Thomas of Denton; second son, Darin Thomas of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; daughter, Jennifer and Joshua Schumacher of Fort Worth; and four grandchildren, Jacob, Rachel, Presley and Scarlett; his parents, Pat and Jean Thomas of Midland; mother-in-law, Imogene Key of Abilene; brothers, Rick and Mary Ellen Thomas and Bruce and Jere Thomas; sister, Sylvia Thomas Cook; three sisters-in-law, Brenda and Lynn James, Sylvia and Mike Ward and Phyllis and Mark Beebe; and several nieces and nephews.

May Delle Frasier
CISCO- May Delle Frasier, 89, of Cisco passed away May 26, 2010, in Dallas. Services were held Friday, May 28, 2010 at 11:00 AM in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco. Leroy Stockard officiated. Burial followed in the Oakwood Cemetery. The family greeted friends and relatives Thursday evening 6~7:30 PM in the Kimbrough Chapel. May Delle was born May 1, 1921, in Okra to Clarence and Birdie (Stovall) Burns. She attended school in Okra & Carbon. She and Vernon Loyd Frasier were married December 27, 1941, in Rising Star. He preceded her in death February 20, 1998. May Delle was employed by the Cisco Independent School District 1966 to 1998. Her first position was “the Snack-Bar Lady”. Several years later, she became a “Cafeteria Lady”. She was loved and respected by her co-workers, students, teachers, and staff. She always had a smile. She was a member of the Fourth Street Church of Christ for many years. Survivors include her son, Lanny Frasier and wife, Donna, of Mesquite, daughter, Mary McCulloch and husband, Ken, of Cisco; grandchildren, Jeff Kinser, of Dallas, Gina Taylor & husband, Bobby, of Meridian, Justin Frasier & wife, Wendi, of Cisco, Misty Bussell & husband, Rex, of Eastland, Bridget McCulloch of Cisco & April Steward & husband, Aaron, of Dallas; great grandchildren, Brooke Taylor, Blaine Taylor, Brady Taylor, Jaylan Frasier, James Evan Frasier & Frasier Bussell. Preceding May Delle in death were her parents, Clarence and Birdie Burns, her husband, Vernon Frasier, brother, Joel Burns, sister, Opal Hendrix and daughter, Rhonda Kinser. Pallbearers were Jerry Morgan, Jake Morgan, Danny Claborn, Tommy Claborn, Robert Allen and Ted McCulloch.

Debra Foster
Breckenridge- Debra Ann Foster, 52, of Cisco died Monday, May 24, 2010. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 29, 2010 at 1:00 P.M. in the Bethany Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the Breckenridge Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 6:30 – 8:00 P.M. Arrangements are under the direction of Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home. Debra was born on November 16, 1957 in Albany, Texas to Archie Lee McCarty and Lucille Robins McCarty. She married Gary Foster on January 2, 1981 in Breckenridge. Debra worked for almost 30 years as a nurse and was currently pursuing a Registered Nurse degree. She was a member of the Kingdom Builders Fellowship Church. Debra is survived by her husband, Gary Foster of Cisco; mother, Lucille McCarty of Breckenridge; daughters, Venetta Petties and husband, Chris of Denton and Tawanna Hernandez of Eastland; sons, Kelly Foster of Denton and Gary Foster Jr. of Tulia; sister, Dana Denise Waller of The Colony, grandchildren MaKayla Mohair of Denton, Maya Petties of Denton, Ly’Anna Hernandez of Eastland, and Noaa Hernandez of Eastland. She was preceded in death by her father Archie Lee McCarty. The family invites friends to leave a condolence or share a memory of Debra in our online guestbook at www.meltonkitchens.com.

Opal Snider
GORMAN- Opal Fay Snider, age 90 of Gorman, passed away Friday, May 14, 2010 at the Comanche County Medical Center. Services were held at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Gil Ramirez officiating. Burial followed at Simpson Cemetery. Mrs. Snider was born March 13, 1920 in Gorman to Frank Leach and Alice (Mangrum) Leach. She married S. L. Snider on March 19, 1936 in Eastland. He preceded her in death on March 3, 1989. She was a homemaker and a member of the Methodist Church. Mrs. Snider lived in Sundown before moving back to Gorman about 23 years ago. She is survived by one daughter, Stella Fay Scott of Gorman; nine grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren and one great-great- grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, two daughters, Margaret Lucille Wallger and Alice Mac Richardson; four brothers and three sisters. Visitation was from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Monday evening at the funeral home.

Juanita Edington
BURKETT- Juanita Gail Chambers Edington, 83, of Burkett, died Tuesday, May 11, 2010. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 13, 2010 at Stevens Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed in the Burkett Cemetery, directed by Stevens Funeral Home. Juanita Gail Chambers Edington was born February 5, 1922 in Burkett, the daughter of Walter R. Chambers and Lela Murriel DeBusk Chambers. She grew up in Burkett and graduated from Burkett High School in 1938. She married Charlie Howard Edington on July 16, 1938 in Brownwood. He preceded her in death on October 27, 2007. She was a life-long resident of Burkett, a wonderful homemaker, loving wife, mother and grandmother and was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Coleman. Survivors include one daughter and son-in-law, Nancy Valeta and Jimmy Brown of Cross Plains; one brother and sister-in-law, Harold Glen and Billie Chambers of Bedford; two sisters, Aleta Coleman of Brownwood, Olene Johnson of Goldthwaite; one daughter-in-law, Linda Edington of Burkett; four grandchildren, Chris Brown and family of Southlake, Jody Brown and family of Burkett, Toni Hart and family of Eastland; eight great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews. Memorials may be sent to Trinity United Methodist Church 1609 South Concho, Coleman, Texas 76834.

Bonita Ervin
CISCO-Bonita (Bonnie) Ervin passed away at 3:10 PM, Monday, May 17, 2010 in the home of her sister, Evelyn Evans, in Snyder, TX. Graveside service will be at 2:00 pm Wednesday, May 19, 2010 at Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco, Texas directed by kimbrough Funeral Home of Cisco. Bonnie was born June 15, 1923 to Ernest & Edith Wilson in Kensington, KS. She, with her family, moved to Sweetwater where she attended school and graduated from Sweetwater High School in 1941. She was a veteran of World War II having served in the U.S.Naval Reserve as a W.A.V.E. She married Roland Petty in Sulphur Springs in 1963. He preceded her in death. In 1972 she married Mick Y. Ervin and he preceded her in death in 1987. She was also preceded in death by her parents, a sister Ernestine, a brother Kenneth and a niece Tammy Evans as well as a stepson Billy Ervin. Survivors include a sister Evelyn Evans of Snyder, a brother and sister in law Robert Wilson and Betty of Irving, TX; a brother and sister in law Keith Wilson and Rubilea of Lehigh Acres, Fl. Also surviving are several step children, several grandchildren, several great grand children as well as several nieces, nephews. She was employed by Edgar Altom from the Eastland Co Tax Assessor Office in 1968. In 1972 she was employed by the Texas Dept of Public Safety as a Driver License Clerk. She retired from this position in 1986. In lieu of flowers, a donation to a favorite charity would be appreciated.

Norine Castle
HAMLIN- Norine Castle, 87, died Wednesday, May 12, 2010, in Hamlin. Graveside services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 15, 2010 at Hamlin Memorial Cemetery, directed by Adams-Foster-Ray Funeral Home in Hamlin. On Wednesday, God looked around His garden and found an empty place. He then looked down upon Earth and saw Norine’s tired face. He put His arms around Norine and took her home to rest in a place where there is no more pain, sorrow, or tears. In heaven, she will be with her brothers (Sidney Gray Flowers “Little Brother” and Jessie Lee Flowers, Jr.) and sisters (Blanche Dawkins Ray and her twin Corine Spalding), her parents (Jessie Lee and Jennie Ellen Wheeler Flowers), her husband (Joe K. Castle) and son-in-law, (Dayne Gossett). Norine was born August 8, 1922, in Deer Plains, Texas along with her twin sister. As a coincidence, both of Norine’s daughters were also born August 8th. She married Joe Kenneth Castle on June 4, 1942, in Rising Star. Norine picked and hoed cotton in the summer before she went to work for West Texas Cooler Pad Company. During this time, she also worked as a waitress and dish washer. She later worked as at the nursing home on the night shift as an aide and a CNA for twenty five years until her retirement in 1989. The last three years, Norine worked the day shift so she could be with her mother. She loved God, gospel music, quilting, sewing, working “Find a Word” puzzles, traveling, and fishing. Norine mostly loved being with her family and extended family. She was known by many names: daughter, sister, Nody, wife, Mother, Aunt, Ma, Moma Joe and friend. She loved her family very much and was always there for them when needed. She loved kids and would baby sit for children, often with no pay, while their mothers worked. She fell in love with all of them. Survivors are two daughters, Carol Joann Gossett of Abilene and Thresa Yvonne Castle of Hamlin; one sister, Stella Ingram of Aspermont. She did not have any grandchildren, but all the kids that came into her home were treated like grandchildren. Norine had numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom were very special. She had many special friends, but Charles and Punkin Helms were the most loved. She said they were more than “just friends” they were her kids too. She also had many special grandkids and great-grandkids. Donations may be made to your favorite charity.

Ruth Noah
Ruth J. Noah of Richardson, a former resident of Eastland passed away May 5, 2010 at age 98 in Richardson, Texas. Ruth is survived by two sons and their wives, a daughter-in-law, six grandchildren and their spouses, and nine great-grandchildren. Prior to moving to Richardson, she lived for twenty years in Eastland where she was very active in community affairs. She was a member of the Music Club, Eastland Civic League and the Hospital Auxiliary. Memorial gifts may be made to the Earl and Billye Bradley Wellness Center of the Eastland Hospital, where Ruth volunteered in the hospital gift shop for many years. She will be buried in the Brownwood Cemetery and a Memorial Service will be held on May 21st at 1:30 p.m. in First United Methodist Church of Richardson.

Rachel Turnbull
LONE CAMP – Rachel H. Turnbull, 101, of Lone Camp passed away Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at her residence. Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 21, 2010 at the Mt. Marion Cemetery in Strawn with Rev. Pete Bradfield officiating.. The family received friends at Edwards Funeral Home in Strawn Thursday evening from 6 until 8 p.m. Mrs. Turnbull was born on April 18, 1909 in Tahlequah, OK to Dennis and Ada (Eubanks) Heflin. She was a teacher for many years in eight different states, retiring from the Mineral Wells Independent School District. She married Jeff Turnbull on June 29, 1985 in Benbrook, TX. She was a member of the Lone Camp Baptist Church. Survivors include her husband, Jeff Turnbull of Lone Camp; 1 son, Danny B. Jones of Arizona; a step-son, Ron Turnbull of Lone Camp; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and extended family.

Mary Harrison
Mary Harrison, age 56 of Breckenridge, died Thursday, May 13, 2010, at Hendrick Medical Center. Graveside funeral services were held at 2 p.m., Monday, May 17th, in the Post Oak Cemetery with Rev. Danny Lee officiating. Burial followed under the direction of Morehart Mortuary. May Lou Gerecht was born on June 28, 1953 in Hartford, Connecticut, to parents, Charles Adolf Gerecht and Mary Beatrice Mellin Gerecht. She moved to Texas as a young child and attended schools in Wilmer. Mary married William Walter Harrison on June 10, 1970 in Breckenridge, Texas. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post No. 4136 in Eastland, as well as the DAV Auxiliary of Mineral Wells. Mary was preceded in death by her parents and one son, Joseph Lynn Harrison. Mary is survived by her husband, William Walter Harrison Sr. of Breckenridge; two sons, William Walter Harrison Jr. of Cleveland and William Mannon Harrison of Yukon, OK; two brothers, Charlie Gerecht of Lancaster and Kenneth Gerecht of Palmer; four sisters, Gloria Hudek of Denton, Pattie Cowburn of Desoto, Bobbie Rolfe of Spring and Virginia Kiersey of Houston; and three grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association and may be left at Morehart Mortuary. Condolences to the family may be sent online at www.morehartmortuary.net.

Natosha Hitt
CISCO- Natosha Marie Hitt (Tosh), 23, of Cisco, died Thursday, May 13, 2010 at her home. She was born March 7, 1987 in Sulphur Springs, Texas to Cindy Yeats and Bill Hitt. She was a twin. She attended Cisco Public Schools and was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Cisco. She was a Christian and loved to listen to her gospel C.D.’s. She loved children, animals, and horseback riding. She loved her furry friends (dogs) Bonny and Lizzy. Tosha never met a stranger and had many close friends. Tosh is survived by her Moma, Cindy Hitt Yeats of Cisco; her daddy and his wife, Bill Hitt and Vicki of Breckenridge; a twin brother Nick Hitt and wife, Amanda of Breckenridge; a brother, Kory Burch and his wife, Annette of Ft. Gratiot, Michigan; maternal grandparents, Terry (Pops) and Dixie (Ma) Haws of Cisco; paternal grandparents, Frances Hitt of Cisco and the late Burdette Hitt; her Great-grandmother Rushing of Cisco. She was preceded in death by a brother, Grant Burch in 2006 and a brother, Matthew Brown in March 2010; her grandfather, Burdette Hitt and the late Jessie Hammer. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, May 17, 2010 at East Cisco Baptist Church officiated by Mike Bacon and Brother C.P. Floyd. Burial will follow in the Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation with family at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco between 4-6 Sunday, May 16th.

Jimmie Alexander
RANGER – Jimmie Wayne Alexander, 71, of Ranger, passed away Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at a local hospital. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 16, 2010 at the Cross Roads Cemetery with Ronny Guess officiating. The family will receive friends at Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger on Saturday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Jimmie was born November 21, 1938 in Stephenville to Charles and Lucille (Canancer) Alexander. After serving in the Army as a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne, he worked in the oilfield for many years as a welder and supervisor. He is survived by his wife, Melissa Alexander; six sons, Charles Rufus Alexander and wife, Kim, of Bronte, Jimmie Wayne Alexander, Jr., Robert Otto Alexander and wife, Wendy, both of New Orleans, LA, James Britt Alexander and wife, Jana, of Houston, Matthew D. Richardson and Christina Casey, and Jamie Ray Richardson and wife, Sharen, all of Ranger; a sister, Mary Lucille Burrows of Lake Texoma; several step children; numerous grandchildren, including the lights of his life, Justin, Jayton and Shelby; and numerous great grandchildren. Preceding him in death are his parents, a brother, C.R. Alexander, Jr. and a sister, Charlene Duddly. In lieu of flowers the family request donations to your favorite charity.

Carter Hart
Carter C. Hart, born July 9, 1924 in Cisco, Texas entered into eternal life on May 10, 2010 following a lengthy illness. Carter was born to James A. and Eula Carter Hart and raised along with his 5 brothers and 3 sisters in the Alameda community. Carter was married on March 12, 1946 in Ranger, Texas to Joy Beardon and together they raised the five little Hart girls. Family was everything to Carter, second only to an abiding faith in his Lord and Savior. His career spanned 60 years including early stints, truck driving, and building airplanes during World War II. He spent 35 years at Gulf Oil/Chevron working his way up from diesel delivery to terminal management. Following his retirement from Chevron, he worked 14 years as a safety supervisor for Watkins Construction. He was preceded in death by his parents James A. and Eula Carter Hart, his brothers, James, Jack, Glenn, Neil Don, RD and sisters, Foye Mahaffey and Beth Ragsdale. His beloved daughter Joan Marie who left this world at the age of 21 was surely rejoined with her daddy at the moment he entered the kingdom of God. Surviving Carter is his sweetheart, best friend and devoted wife of 64 years, Joy, his only surviving sibling, his sister, Wanda Ruth Donohue of Cowetta, Oklahoma and daughters Carol Gilbert of Arlington, Rita Hart of Corsicana, Lee Ann Collins of Grand Prairie and Lana Warren of Humble, Texas. The husbands of his daughters automatically became sons to Carter. Those proud sons are Willy Gilbert, Bryan Collins and Ed Warren. He leaves behind 15 grandchildren, Carey, Tempy and Carter Gilbert, Caron and John Paul Crumley, Eric, Jason and Kristal Collins, Heather and Jeffery Reeves, Sean, Tonya, Joshua and Amanda Davault and Scott Willis. One of his greatest blessings was living long enough to meet his great-grandchildren who will always remember “Great Papaw”. Those 11 little blessings are Keld, Gilbert, Christian, Ava, Olivia, Zachery, Kaitlyn and Addison Collins, Anthony, Tyler, Nicholas and Chloe Davault. Carter was an educated man with numerous certifications in mine, construction and oilfield safety. He had a desire to seek out information and was able to converse intelligently on almost any subject. His concern and love for this country lead to writing and publishing of his book a wake-up call to America entitled “The Age of Folly”. At the time of his passing he was working on his second book about the history of the Hart family. His heart was pure and his belief in what was right and wrong was granite certain. Carter Hart was a man of great conviction willing to take a stand for his beliefs, faithful to his principals and diligent in his worship and Bible study. His infectious spirit was contagious--never meeting a stranger and never leaving anywhere without a new collection of friends. Carter Hart had a God given gift of seeing the best in people, and thereby encouraging them to believe the best of themselves. He loved the adventure of discovery and more so sharing his discoveries with those he cherished. All of his children, and grandchildren surely understood the thrill of a rock hunt, those long wandering “short-cuts”, camping in the majesty of Gods creations and thousands of miles logged in the back of various station wagons. We will each miss him until our last days and until then will carry the teachings, the laughter and the love that was and will be Carter Hart in each of us. Online guest book available at www.griffin-roughton.com. Arrangements by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home, Corsicana, Texas.

Richard Smith
Richard Lee Smith, 70 of Carbon, a retired truck driver and farmer, died Tuesday May 11, 2010 in Waco. Funeral: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, May 15, 2010 in Mountain Valley Funeral Home Chapel in Joshua. Interment: Caddo Cemetery, Joshua. Visitation: 6-8 p.m. Friday at Mountain Valley Funeral Home. Richard Lee Smith was born Nov. 10, 1939 in Joshua to Denver Lee and Willie Mae Robinson. He married Karen Ann on May 27, 1975 in Oklahoma. He was a member of Carbon Christ Center in Carbon. Richard enjoyed his cows, going to church, and loved his wife and family. Most of all he loved serving the Lord. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Elizabeth Ann Smith; and a daughter, Shawna. Survivors: Wife, Karen Smith of Carbon; sons, John H. Smith of Joshua, Denver L. Smith of Burleson, Joe B. Smith of Joshua; daughter, Kristi K. Smith of Mississippi; stepson, Terry L. Harmon Jr. of Tennessee; sisters, Barbara Ann Taylor of Burleson, Willie Marie Steel and husband, David of Talihina, Oklahoma; grandchildren, Jennifer, Lee, Chase, Kara (What’s her name); great granddaughter, Brenna; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Stanley Guyett
Stanley Hugh Guyett, 72, of Comanche, passed away Wednesday, May 12, 2010, at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene. Services will be 2:00 PM Saturday, May 15, 2010 at Corinth Baptist Church, located between Cisco & Eastland on CR 154, ¼ mile north of Hwy 6. Reverend Benny Hagan will officiate. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Corinth Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation was Friday 5~7:00 PM in the Kimbrough Funeral Chapel in Cisco. Mr. Guyett was born in East Montpelier, Vermont on February 22, 1938 to Harold and Hazel Bertha (Jackson) Guyett. He served for 16 years in the US Air Force during the Viet Nam War as a Sergeant First Class and then retired from the US Army. He worked for Tracor Inc. in Austin, Texas as an Electronic Tech. He married Dorothy Ellen Harlow on March 13, 1973 in Council Bluff, Iowa. He was a member of Corinth Baptist Church in Cisco. He was preceded in death by a son, James Truett Scribblen. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Ellen Guyett of Comanche, sons, Bob John Guyett of Florida and Ray A. Jones III of Mineral Wells; daughters, Darita Ellen DeDeland and husband Mike of St Louis, Missouri Wendy Page and husband Jack of New York; grandchildren, Deitra Ellen Pierce, Dalina Ellen Regero, Rachael Nicole Mossman, Catherine Campbell, Alice Campbell, and Tye Scribblen; several great grandchildren and other relatives.

Gloria Wall
Gloria Wade Wall, age 66 of Burleson, passed away Tuesday, May 11, 2010 in a Fort Worth hospital. Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Saturday, May 15, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Gorman with Bro. Barry Schahn officiating. Burial will be in Sand Hill Cemetery. Arrangements under the direction of Higginbotham Funeral Home. Mrs. Wall was born November 12, 1943 in Gorman to Wade George Bingham and Mae Elizabeth (McCulley) Bingham. She married Earnest Wall on June 30, 1962 in McCamey, Texas. She was a homemaker and a member of the Baptist Church. She is survived by her husband, Earnest Wall of Burleson; one son, Kevin Wall and wife, Jody of Kennedale; one daughter, Jamie Plaisted and husband, Mike of Burleson; mother, Elizabeth Bingham of Gorman; one sister, Terry Wedge and husband, Larry of Sachse; five grandsons, Brandan Wall, Nathan Wall, Andrew Wall, Michael Plaisted, Jr. and Daniel Plaisted; one great granddaughter, Grace Wall. She was preceded in death by her father, George Bingham.

Beverly Mendoza
RANGER-Beverly Ann Harris Mendoza, age 55 of Ranger, passed away on Thursday, May 13, 2010 in Eastland. Memorial services will be held at First United Penicostal Church in Ranger on Saturday May 15, 2010 at 10 AM with Brother Gustanson officiating. Beverly was born February 4, 1955 in Kansas City, Missouri to Harry and Mary Harris. She is survived by husband, Rudy Mendoza of Ranger, Misty Miley and husband Steven of Gorman, Kelly Hodges and Jody of Ranger; mother Mary Harris of Modesto, CA.; 7 sisters and 2 brothers; grandchildren, Jaylon Miley, Randall Miley, Hailey Hodges, Kelsey Hodges, Alexis Hodges and River Hodges. She was preceded in death by her father, Harry Harris and nephew Steven Harris. She was a loving person and mother.

Brenda Brown
Brenda Lynn Brown, 42,formerly of Rising Star passed away Sunday May 9, 2010 in Newport TN. Brenda was born October 9, 1967 to Thomas Edward Brown and Neva Ann Cornett Brown in Houston, TX. Brenda graduated from Rising Star High School in 1986. She also attended schools in Santa Anna & Coleman. The past 20 years she has lived in Monticello, AR and Newport TN. She is preceded in death by her mother and grandparents Elmer & Mabel Cornett of Rising Star and William & Mary Brown of Dallas, TX. Brenda is survived by her father, Thomas Brown of Monticello, AR, 4 sisters, Wanda & husband Tim Chapman of Monticello, AR, Sandy Craig of Monticello, AR, Rhonda and husband Jody Brusenhan of Beaumont, TX, Melissa Brown of The Colony, TX and 2 brothers, Robby and wife Karen Brown of The Colony, TX and Jerry and wife Judy Brown of Monticello, AR. She is also survived by her boyfriend, James Sisk and his two sons whom she loved as her own, Dakota & Tyler of Newport, TN, several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews & cousins and friends. A memorial will be held Sunday, May 16 at Rising Star First Baptist Church, Rising Star, TX at 3:30 p.m to be officiated by Bro. Ed Etheridge of Carrollton, TX.

Willie Pearl Honea
CISCO- Willie Pearl (Allen, Senterfitt, Staton), Honea, 84, of Cisco passed away Thursday, April 29, 2010, in the Homestead Care Center. Graveside services were held at 10:00 AM Saturday, May 1, 2010 in the Richland Springs Cemetery in Richland Springs, Texas. Visitation with family and friends was held Friday 5~7:00 PM in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco. Pearl was born March 2, 1926, in Richland Springs in Mills County to Leonard Bert and Minnie (Hudson) Allen. She graduated from San Saba High School. She worked as a bookkeeper at Kay Chevrolet Dealership and the White Elephant Restaurant in Cisco. Pearl was a member of the Church of Christ and the Cisco Jaycettes. She was preceded in death by a son, Robert Staton. Survivors are two daughters: Lesa Stacey and husband Van of LaGrange, Cynthia Finch of Cisco; two sons, Don Staton and wife Chris of Monks Corner, South Carolina, Allen Senterfitt and wife Twila of Cisco; 11 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

William 'Sam' Summers
FORT WORTH -- William “Sam” Summers, 67, passed away April 30, 2010. Memorial Visitation: 2-3:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 5, 2010 at Winscott Road Funeral Home, 1001 Winscott Rd. Sam was born June 27, 1942 in Ranger. Survivors: Loving wife of 48 years, Charlene Summers; sisters, Dana Kay Maxwell of Denton, and Vicki Lynn O’Donald and husband, Ronnie of Wylie; nieces and nephews; grandnieces (his girls), Christie, Mickey and Kim; and dog, Ladybug.

Helen Haight
CISCO- Helen Elizabeth (Betty) Haight, 92 of Cisco passed away at her home on Friday April 30, 2010. Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, May 3, 2010 at First Baptist Church, officiated by Reverend Benny Hagan. Burial with Military Honors was be in Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Betty was born in Buffalo, New York on February 22, 1918 to Clarence A. and Mabel (Monroe) Haight. She attended all grades of school through high school, and then attended and graduated from Clarkson Hospital Nursing School in Omaha, Nebraska as a Registered Nurse. She served in the US Army Nurse Corp during World War II in England and the Korean Conflict serving in Tokyo General Hospital in Japan and reached the rank of Captain. She worked at the Navy Hospital in Corpus Christi for many years until she retired from Civil Service. After her retirement she worked at the EL Graham Memorial Hospital in Cisco. During her retirement years she also taught clinical nursing students for Supplemental Health Care Travel Agency in the Gaza Strip. She was a member of the First Baptist Church. She is survived by a niece Susan Olney and her husband Dan of Glendale, Arizona and their children, Ronnie, Debbie, Kathy, and Greg. Also surviving is her very close friend, Fay Stephenson of Cisco and Fay’s sons, Charles Stephenson and wife Retna of Cisco and Jack Stephenson and wife Vickie of Enroe; also, Fay’s grandson’s, Charles Stephenson of Washington, DC and Tod Stephenson of Burleson. Memorials may be made to Villa Haven Nursing Center, 300 South Jackson, Breckenridge, TX 76424-4899.

Patsy Clark
GORMAN- Patsy Ann Rodgers Clark was born to Ray and Lavelle Rodgers on March 22, 1940 in Gorman, Texas. She left this world at her Lord’s calling to join him in Heaven, on May 1, 2010. Funeral services were held at 1:00 P. M. Monday, May 3, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Gorman with Rev. Jim Holt of Comfort, Texas and Rev. Barry Schahn officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery. Services under the direction of Higginbotham Funeral Home in Gorman. Patsy was raised in Gorman, Texas where she met and married her sweetheart of 54 years, Doyle Lynn Clark on May 11, 1956. After their marriage they lived in various places in Texas until they settled in Comfort, Texas where they resided for 40 years. Two years ago, they returned to Gorman their childhood home, to retire. Together they cherished three children, ten grandchildren and four great grandchildren. Patsy was the heart of her family and loved each and everyone of them immensely. She always had time for family and friends and was the first one to offer care and concern to those in need. An avid gardener and landscaper, her yard and beautiful flowers were admired by all. Her family and friends know that they will never look at a rose again without thinking lovingly of her. In addition to gardening she enjoyed cooking , fishing, following all the grandchildren’s school and sporting events and she was never too tired to shop. The most important thing in Patsy’s life was her relationship with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Her greatest joy and desire was that her family follow Him and trust in His word. Her faith never faltered. Even as she battled cancer, she spoke of how blessed she was to have had 70 wonderful years on this earth. She truly gave all the glory to God and knew where she would spend eternity.
Patsy is survived by her husband, Doyle Lynn Clark of Gorman; son, Ricky Clark and wife, Linda of Salado and their children, Garrett and wife, Lisa and Travis and Ryan; daughter, Cathy and husband, Phil Webb of Ranger and children, Cara and husband, David Branch, Corby, Marissa and husband, Edwin Marmalejos and Lyndi; Rob Clark and wife, Beth of Tomball and children, Matthew and Mallorie and Macie; great grandchildren, Corben and Brynna Branch and Griffin and Olivia Clark; mother, Lavelle Rodgers Crowley of Gorman; sister, Glinda Poe and husband Bob of Fort Worth; brother, Harold Rodgers and wife, Kathy of Comfort and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Ray Rodgers and her brother, Charles Rodgers. To honor Patsy’s memory she and her family ask that donations be made to the building fund of the First Baptist Church in Gorman.

Annie Foster
GORMAN- Annie Fay Foster, age 91 of Gorman, passed away Tuesday, April 27, 2010 at her home. Services were held at 2:00 P. M. Thursday, April 29, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Gorman with Bro. Barry Schahn officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery. Services under the direction of Higginbotham Funeral Home in Gorman. Annie Fay was born March 21, 1919 in Girard, Kent County, Texas to John and Sarah Ann Waldon Murdoch. She married M.E. “Buck” Foster, September 24, 1938 in Gorman. They were married for 58 years before the passing of “Buck” in 1997. Annie Fay was a nurse and began her career when she was a teenager in the Blackwell Hospital. After her children reached school age, she started working in the Gorman Nursing Home. After the new Lawndale Nursing Home opened, in the early 1960’s she served as director of nurses for about 20 years until retirement. Annie Fay loved the Lord. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Gorman. She loved her Sunday School Class the “Joyful Willing Workers” and her church family. She served as WMU president, taught Sunday school classes; worked with the G.A.’s, Sunbeams and Vacation Bible School. Annie Fay is survived by three daughters, Martha Overstreet of Gorman, Pam and Ron Childers of Gorman and Beckey and Vernon Smith of Rising Star; one sister, Jewel Morris of DeLeon; six grandchildren, Ronson and Tiffany Childers, Jonray and Suzanne Childers, Robert and Lisa Darley, Rachel and Josh Beal, Jennifer Overstreet and Sara Overstreet; and eleven great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, Mamie, Pallie and Opal and six brothers, Willie, Louis, Noah, Hughie, Clyde and R. G.

Billy 'Bill' Black
BROWNWOOD- Billy E. “Bill” Black, 85, died Tuesday, April 20, 2010 in Brownwood. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 24, 2010 at First Baptist Church. Burial with Masonic rites followed in the Oakview Cemetery in Mullin under the direction of Davis-Morris Funeral Home. Bill was born on May 18, 1924 in Desdemona, Texas to W.B. and Minnie Jenkins Black. He attended Mullin schools and graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science n petroleum geology. He was self employed as a geologist. He was member of Brownwood Masonic Lodge No. 279, the Waco Scottish Rite Body, and the Suez Shrine Temple of San Angelo. He was also a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Brownwood. Survivors are his wife, Crystal of Brownwood; their children, Chad and Lora Simpson of Clarendon, John and Glenda Gast of Mineral Wells, and Amy Polito of Mineral Wells; grandchildren, Alysse and Malerie Simpson of Clarendon, Emma and Abby Gast of Mineral Wells, and Hannah Polito of Mineral Wells; cousins, Barney and Betty Johnson of Abilene and many other cousins in Brown and Mills counties. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Lura B. Black; and a son, Gary Black. The family requests that memorials be made to the Shriner’s hospitals of Houston and Galveston or to the Lymphoma and Myeloma Center at MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Patricia Buckley
DESDEMONA- Patricia Ann Buckley, 73, of Desdemona died at her residence. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 29, 2010 at Desdemona First Baptist Church. Burial at Desdemona Cemetery.

Mary Childs
Mary Helen Childs, age 92, passed away on Saturday, April 24, 2010. She was born in Ranger, TX on December 8, 1917. She honorably retired from the US Navy on January 27, 1954. Afterwards, she worked in Northern California as a school psychologist and relocated to San Antonio in the early 1990’s. Mary Helen is survived by her nephew, Randy Krajcar of Gilbert, AZ and niece, Sandra King of Ft. Worth, TX. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, May 4th at 11:00 A.M. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with Chaplain Phillip A. Lewis officiating. You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.porterloring.com. Arrangements with PORTER LORING MORTUARIES.

Johnnie Riffle
EASTLAND – Johnnie Riffle, 85, passed away Monday, April 26, 2010 at her residence. Graveside services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, April 30, 2010 at the Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger with Larry Roberts officiating. The family received friends at Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland Friday from 6 until 8 p.m. Johnnie was born in Erath Co. on April 24, 1925 to John and Mildred (Gordon) Dorris. She was a beautician for over 30 years and was a member of the Church of Christ. Johnnie loved to garden, cook and spend time with her family. She was also an animal lover who took great pleasure in feeding the birds and playing with her dogs. Johnnie is preceded in death by her husband, three brothers and two sisters. Johnnie is survived her children Paula Castanuela and husband John of Eastland, Mitch Riffle and wife Kay of Eastland, Paul Riffle and wife Tracy of Abilene, Mark Riffle and wife Angie of Breckenridge, Mike Riffle and wife Dana of Austin, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Derryl Boyd
CISCO- Derryl Wayne Boyd, 50, of Cisco, died Monday, April 26, 2010 at Eastland Memorial Hospital. Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, April 29, 2010 at Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco directed by Summers-Chambers Funeral Home. Derryl was born in Ranger, Texas on October 30, 1959 to Donald and Sybil (Brown) Boyd. Derryl worked as an electrician most of his life. He also loved riding his motorcycle. He was preceded in death by his parents. Derryl is survived by two daughters, Wendy Linam of Rio Vista, Texas and Sarah Boyd of Abilene, Texas; two brothers, Carter Boyd and Gary Boyd both of Cisco; and four grandchildren.

Terrell Williamson
ABILENE- Terrell W. Williamson passed away in an Abilene hospital on Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at the age of 89. Services were held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 1, 2010 at Potosi Baptist Church with Brother Keith Clifton officiating. Burial followed at Eastland City Cemetery directed by North’s Funeral Home. Terrell was born July 31, 1920 in Staff, Eastland, County, Texas to Frank and Edna Earle Williamson. He was raised on a farm in Staff, which today is Lake Leon. He graduated in 1936 from Ranger High School and went on to Tarleton State University for two years. He went to work as an electrician for Texas Electric Service in Eastland and Breckenridge. From there he went to work for the Defense Department as an electrician in 1942. The Defense Department assigned him duties in Oahu, Hawaii and he was there until he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1946. He served at Camp Lee, Virginia, where he attained the rank of Sergeant before being honorably discharged at San Antonio, Texas in February 1947. He then worked as an electrical contractor in Paducah, Kentucky for several years before returning to Texas. He was a member of the IBEW Local 920 for 50 years, retiring in 1986. He married Bobbye Joe Johnson on September 12, 1958 in Breckenridge, Texas. They moved to Abilene that same year and began a life together of nearly 52 years. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Eddie Williamson and F.C. Williamson. He is survived by his loving wife, Bobbye Joe of Potosi; two sons, Eddie Frank Williamson and wife Ina Jo of Potosi, and Billy Joe Johnson and wife Lois of Potosi; daughter Nell Kennedy and husband Charles of Olden; two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, and his faithful companion, his dog, Cindy.

R.S. Higgins, Jr.
On April 23, 2010, Coach Higgins left the playing field to claim his ultimate victory after 77 years of competition. Born September 3, 1932 in El Paso, Texas to loving parents, Esther and R.S. Sr., they moved to Martin County in 1945. He was active in the 4-H and school activities, graduating from Stanton High School in 1950. R.S. attended Texas A&M University on a track scholarship and was in the corps of cadets. He was a founding member of the rodeo team, riding bulls and steer dogging. After graduating in 1954, he was a County Agent in Bracketville and Eastland, wrote and had race horses, and was a ranch manager in Howard County. In 1962 he found his passion and began teaching and coaching in Coahoma. He received his Masters in Education from A&M in 1970 as he continued to positively change lives through his example of perseverance and encouragement in pursuit of excellence. He went on to successful seasons in Belton, Big Spring, Alice, Mexia, Carrollton/Farmers Branch, Deer Park, University of New Mexico, Pearland, Richmond/Rosenburg and Hobbs, NM. R.S. ended his career in the 2001 championships with the Krusaders of Karlstad, Sweden. Returning to his friends and church family in Hobbs, R.S. enjoyed dancing, camper traveling and fishing, making rope baskets, Methodist Men breakfast meetings and eating ice cream. Being diagnosed with Parkinsons disease in 2005 did not beat him; he nearly got “outscored” in the final seconds. He is survived by his family: loving wife of 30 years, Yvonne; sister, Harriett Higgins of Midland; daughters and son and their spouses, Dawn Higgins of Mexia, Becky Clowers of Round Rock, Debbie Walker of Leakey, Roger Dugan of Hurst and daughter-in-law, Dale McMichael of Dayton, Ohio; grandchildren, Meredith and Claire Higgins, Wyatt and Clayton Turk, Jennifer Dugan, Michelle Williams and Wesley Clowers; great granddaughter, Hannah Williams. He is received in heaven by his parents, his sister, Betty Marie, and sons, Scott and Bryan Neal Higgins. Coach Higgins’ encouraging spirit will be missed but never forgotten by the “Mullet” coaching family and his many, many friends. Memorial services were held, 2 PM, Monday, April 26, 2010 at First United Methodist Church in Hobbs, NM with the Reverend Darren Skinner officiating. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the student athlete scholarship fund that has been established: R.S. Higgins Scholarship, First Texas Bank, 6811 Indiana, Lubbock, TX 79413, 806-793-4778, attn: Melissa or Callie.
Arrangements were under the direction of Griffin Funeral Home.

Jarrett Stacy
EASTLAND- Jarrett Scott Stacy, age 31, died Wednesday, April 21, 2010 in Abilene, Texas. A Memorial Service was held at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 24, 2010 at Summers-Bakker Funeral Home in Eastland. Jarrett Scott Stacy, was born on February 14, 1979 to Scott and Nancy Stacy in Ranger, Texas. He attended Elementary, Middle and High school in Cisco, but graduated from Gorman High School. After high school, Jarrett joined the United States Air Force where he was stationed in Japan. Jarrett was employed by FPL Wind Farms, where he worked on and repaired wind turbines, which he dearly loved. He also enjoyed working on and fixing up cars and riding his motorcycle, as well as computers and video games. Jarrett is survived by his mother, Nancy Harris and husband Randy of Eastland, Tx; father, Scott Stacy and wife Nannette of Gorman, Tx; sisters, Shelly Wallace and husband Kirk and Hannah and Haley of Abilene, Tx and Ginger Bunn and husband Chase of Cisco; Grandparents, Gilbert and Anita Copeland of Cisco, Tx; Uncle, Gary Copeland and wife Janie of Ft. Wayne, Indiana; Aunt, Julia Wilder and Matt and Mandi of Ft. Smith, Arkansas; and may other cousins, family and friends. To honor Jarrett’s memory, family asks that you make donations to Eastland Memorial Hospital Volunteers Program or the Cisco Senior Nutrition Program.

Emma Browning
Emma C. Browning, age 99, of Austin passed away on Friday, April 23, 2010. She was born October 26, 1910 in Eastland, Texas to James William Carter and Pamelia Lousia Gilbreath – a family of 11 children. Her mother died when Emma was 8 and she was raised by her father with help from her older siblings. Emma attended Abilene Business College and was an “employed lady” in the insurance industry. In 1929 she had her first plane ride and fell in love with aviation. She met daredevil pilot, Robert Browning and they were married in 1930. She earned her pilots license in 1939. Emma and Robert moved to Austin to compete for government contracts to train pilots as WWII was beginning. Her husband was hands on with the planes and Emma managed the business; Browning Aerial Service, a Fixed Base Operation at Robert Mueller Municipal Airport. Robert passed away in 1973 and she continued operating the business with her son. She was personally acquainted with the great Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindberg. Her love of, and dedication to, the aviation industry was recognized when in 2005 she was inducted into The Texas Aviation Hall of Fame. One goal that did not come to fruition was to see an aviation museum built in the area. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert M Browning and her only son Robert M Browning III. “Aunt Emma’s” survivors include her sister, Opal King of Ranger, TX; nephews and nieces, M B Hogan and wife Cora of Arlington, TX, Dee Hogan and wife Joleen of Fort Worth, TX, Glenn Hogan and wife Sarita of Seattle WA, Joy Hogan Harris of Odessa, TX, Sherry King Warren of Ranger, TX and Johny Bob King of Mineral Wells, TX, and Jim DeGraw and wife Caroline of The Netherlands; as well as numerous grand and great grand nieces and nephews. Special thanks to A-Med Hospice for their loving care of Emma and her family. The family will received friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 27th at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, North Lamar. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at First Baptist Church, Austin (where Emma was a longtime member). Graveside services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at Eastland City Cemetery, Eastland, Texas. Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to First Baptist Church Foundation, 901 Trinity, Austin TX 78701-2635 Obituary and guestbook available online at www.wcfish.com
Arrangements by Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home, 3125 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78705 – (512) 452-8811.

Jane Smith
Jane J. Smith, 88 years old, died April 22, 2010. Jane was born in Fort Worth, Texas on January 16, 1922. She married G.W. Smith in September 1940. They lived in Grapevine, Texas and were members of First Baptist Church of Grapevine. G.W. died August 4, 1985, and in 1997 Jane moved with the family to Eastland, Texas. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, Eastland. Jane is survived by one son, Kenneth Smith and his wife, Darla. She had one grandchild, Shelly Sinclair married to Greg and they have her only great-grandson, Cody Smith Sinclair. Jane spent her last few years in the Woodlands Assisted Living Home. A memorial service will be held at Grimes Memorial Garden, Eastland, on May 3, 2010 at 6:30 in the evening.

Kathy Purvis
CROSS PLAINS- Kathy Sue Purvis, 58, of Cross Plains, Texas died Sunday, April 25, 2010 in Abilene with family and friends around her. Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Cross Plains with Pastor Ronnie B. White officiating. Burial followed in the Cross Plains Memorial Cemetery. Kathy was born June 6, 1951 in Coleman, Texas to Jimmie Lee and Virginia Ruth (Neeb) Payne. She graduated from Cross Plains High School in 1969. Shortly thereafter she married Ray Purvis on July 5, 1969 in Cross Plains. She worked at Bryan’s Variety Store after graduation, then for JRB Grocery Store before returning to school at Howard Payne University in Brownwood. Kathy and her son Kevin both graduated the same year, he from high school and she from college graduating Sum Cum Laud. She worked in Eula for a year, and then returned to teach in Cross Plains. She loved God above all else, then her family, her Sunday School class, her students and fellow teachers, and community. She was a shinning example of a Christian woman. After Kathy’s first bout with cancer, she was instrumental in getting the Cancer Walk started in Cross Plains, it will continue in memory of her. She lived by her favorite scripture Phillippians 4:13. She was preceded in death by her father, Jimmie Lee Payne. Survivors are her husband, Ray Purvis of Cross Plains; son, Kevin Ray Purvis and wife, Yvonne of Watauga; daughter, Angela Sue Purvis and partner Rhonda Methvin of Albuquerque, NM; brothers, Jerry Payne and wife Laura of Brownwood; James Payne and wife Edith of Ft. Stockton; and sister, Melissa Baughman and husband Kenny of Magnolia; and mother, Virginia Payne of Rising Star. Donations may be made to the Cross Plains Cancer Fund, c/o Texas Heritage Bank, P.O. Box 699, Cross Plains, TX 76443.

Edith Wampler
EASTLAND – Edith Wampler, 89, of Eastland, passed away Thursday, April 22, 2010 in Eastland. Services were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Rex Boggs officiating. Burial followed in the Plum Branch Cemetery, in Stephens County. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Mrs. Wampler was born June 18, 1920 in Stephens County to Jasper & Elpha (Brown) Bloytt. She married William Wampler in November, 1941 in Breckenridge. She was a member of the Gunsight Baptist Church. She enjoyed singing and playing the piano and used that gift as part of a group that entertained residents at various nursing homes. She was preceded in death by her husband as well as her son, Tony Wampler. Survivors include her daughter-in-law, Delanna Wampler Allen of Gonzales; sister, Marza White of Abilene; grandchildren, Kyle Wayne Hines Wampler, Dakota Rio Wampler and Shiloh Callaway Wampler all of San Antonio; and numerous extended family and friends.

Adam Lopez
RANGER- Adam Diaz Lopez, 46, of Ranger passed away Wednesday, April 21, 2010 in Ft.Worth, TX. Services will be held 10:00 A.M. Saturday, April 24, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Ranger. Burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 23, 2010. Adam Diaz Lopez Jr, 46 of Ranger, Texas was reported early morning on Wednesday April 21, 2010 to have been involved in a traffic accident. He was Care Flighted to ICU at St. John Peter Smith Hospital, in Ft. Worth, TX. As we all know he was a fighter, and fought until his last heart beat. He was pernounced dead at 5:01 am. Adam was our Hero and hero to many throughout his lifetime. He was a loving father, son, brother and uncle as well as a granfather. Adam was a big part of the community of Ranger and well known. He was born February 8, 1964 to Adam Sr and Rachel Lopez in Abilene, Texas. He attended Winters Elementary. In 1977 his family moved to Ranger. He joined Ranger Volunteer Fire Dept in 1981. He loved the exictement of fire fighting and helping his community. Mainly just helping other. He graduated from Ranger High School in 1983, where he played Football, basketball and ran track. He was a Ranger Fire Dept Volunteer fighter for 16 years. In 1996 he recieved fireman of the year award. He loved hanging out at the fire station in his spare time...when he wasnt out makin a dollar. His motto was always, “Another day, another dollar.” He worked for Fina Gas Station in his high school years. In 1986 he went to work for Sun Oil Company and quit to go to work for the City of Ranger for a year. He then was elected commissioner of the Water department of Ranger and then off to Freddys Wrecker Service. As his children grew up in Ranger he participated in coaching T-ball, little leauge baseball and pee wee basketball. Adam also attened every Ranger Football game he could. He was a long time member of the Ranger Historical Society, and attended many city hall meetings. Adam is survived by two sons Andrew Lopez and Aaron Hoodie of Ranger, TX, his daughter Gabriella, and his girlfriend Teresa Abila of Ranger, TX, Mother Rachel Lopez of Ft. Worth, TX, his Father Adam Lopez Sr. of Olden, TX, one brother Anthony Lopez of Aledo, TX, one sister Michelle Lopez of Ft. Worth, TX, two nephews Lane Adam Lopez, Landon Lopez, one neice Madison Lopez. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Nathaniel, and Kassidy Hoodie. Adam had many aunt’s, unlce’s and cousins in his family as well as friends. Adam will be very missed by all who knew him and those who loved him. We Miss you Dad, Love you and will always remember what you taught us. Bye Daddy!

Clinton Humphreys
LONGVIEW- Clinton Ray Humphreys was born in Eastland County on January 13, 1941, to Vernon and Jackie Humphreys. Clint lived on a cattle ranch until he went to college. He attended Eastland schools and graduated from Eastland High School in 1959. He played all sports and participated in all agricultural events while in high school. Clint attended Sul Ross State University on a football scholarship, where he played quarterback for the Lobos. He was elected Freshman Class Favorite, as well as being selected for Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities, and he was a member of Alpha Chi at Sul Ross. Clint received a Bachelor of Science degree in August 1962. Clint began his career in education in 1962, and for 30 years he served as coach and athletic director at six different school districts. While coaching football, Clint won five different district championships at four different high schools with several undefeated regular seasons. He received a number of honors during his coaching and AD career. Clint was selected District Coach of the Year five different times. He was nominated as a candidate to coach the Texas High School All Stars and served as president of the Texas High School Athletic Director’s Association. Clint was selected as the Athletic Director of the Year and also was inducted into the Texas High School Athletic Directors Hall of Honor. After retiring from coaching Clint served on the LISD school board for six years. With these accomplishments, Clint said he was the proudest of his wife, Nancy, his son, Randy, daughter-in-law, Teresa, and the light of his life: his grandkids, Miranda, Miriah and Nate. He loved being their Pawpaw and taking them to various stock shows to show steers. He had been a member of First Christian Church of Longview since 1971. Clint was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Jackie Humphreys; his sister, Lea Wright; his wife of 48 years, Nancy; his son, Randy and his wife, Teresa; grandchildren, Miranda, Miriah and Nate, all of Longview; brother-in-law, James Wright; nephew, Jim R. Wright; niece, Jeannie Walker; brother-in-law, Tommy Beck and wife, Maria, all of Eastland; and brother-in-law, Steve Beck and wife, Rebecca of Nacogdoches. Donations may be made to First Christian Church Building Fund, LISD Foundation or a charity of your choice. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Monday, April 19, 2010, at First Christian Church, Dr. Richard Emerson, the Rev. Jim Wright, Mr. John Wink and the Rev. Gala Strunk officiated. Interment was in Rosewood Park Cemetery directed by Rader Funeral Home of Longview. Mr. Humphreys died Thursday, April 15, 2010, in Longview. A memorial guestbook may be signed at www.raderfh.com

Jarrett Stacy
EASTLAND- Jarrett Scott Stacy, age 31, of Abilene, formerly of Eastland, died April 21, 2010. Memorial services will be held at 2PM on Saturday, April 24, 2010 in the Summers-Bakker Chapel. Funeral services are under the direction of Summers-Bakker Funeral Home in Eastland.

Hattie Alford
Hattie Marguerite Alford, 92, of Abilene, died Monday, April 19, 2010 at a local nursing home. Funeral services will be at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at the Rising Star Church of Christ with burial to follow in Elm Cemetery in Rising Star. Rodney Ashlock will officiate. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Tuesday at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road. Marguerite was born October 23, 1917 in DeLeon, Texas to Jack Almand and Patty Blanche (Goslen) Almand. She graduated from high school in Sipe Springs. In 1984, Marguerite moved from Rising Star to Abilene. She was a member of the Quilters Club and Westgate Church of Christ. Marguerite was an artist. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Patty Almand; her husband, Curtis Arthur Alford in January 1985; one brother, two sisters and one granddaughter, Jodi Lu Alford. Marguerite is survived by two sons, Ed Alford and wife Pat of Abilene, Tommy Alford and wife Sherry of Rising Star; one brother, Al Almand and wife Loretta of Marshall; three sisters, Edna Smith of California, Clara Bradshaw of Abilene, Wilma Moore and husband Clarence of Kerrville; three grandchildren, Leslie Bowley and husband Curtis, Chance Alford and wife Allison, Jason Alford and wife Katie; six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be Chance Alford, Jason Alford, Dwayne Hargesheimer, Franklin Cox, Scott Olson and Weldon Hill. Memorials may be made to Elm Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 404, Rising Star, Texas 76471. Condolences may be submitted online at: www.HamilFamilyFuneralHome.com.

Travis Crutchfield, Jr.
TUSCOLA – Travis Crutchfield, Jr., 56, died Thursday, April 15, 2010, in Seton Hospital in Austin. Services were held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, April 19, 2010, in First Baptist Church , Buffalo Gap, with the Reverends Steve Joiner and Graham Gutting officiated. Burial was in Buffalo Gap Cemetery, directed by Fry-Bartlett Funeral Home in Tuscola. Travis was born October 30, 1953, in Ranger, to Travis and Doris Bush Crutchfield. He married Linda McCollum December 18, 1993, in Tuscola. A graduate of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, he served as pastor of several Baptist churches in Texas . At the time of his death, he was Nursing Home Minister for Abilene Baptist Association and a member of First Baptist Church in Buffalo Gap. Preceding him in death was his father. Survivors include his wife, Linda Crutchfield of Buffalo Gap; a brother, Stanley Crutchfield and wife Sandra of Cisco; a sister, Karen Blazi and husband John of Dublin; his mother, Doris Crutchfield of Cisco; his mother-in-law, Nell McCollum of Buffalo Gap; two brothers-in-law, Bart McCollum and wife Michelle of Amarillo, and Barry McCollum and wife Darla of Buffalo Gap; one niece; three nephews; one great-niece; and several other relatives and many friends.

Janice Cooley
EASTLAND – Janice Edwards Cooley, 56, of Eastland passed away Sunday, April 18, 2010 in Eastland. Services were held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 21, 2010 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland. Visitation was from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 20, 2010 at Edwards Funeral Home. Janice was born August 14, 1953 in Ranger, TX to Doyce and Hazel (Dabbs) Edwards. Janice was a lifetime member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary in Eastland. She enjoyed karaoke, fishing and motorcycle riding. Janice was a loving and caring person. She loved spending time with her friends and family. Janice will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, William Edwards. She is survived by her husband of 19 years, David Cooley; daughters, Sherry Sharp, Brandy Sharp and Misty Sharp; son, Cody Allen Sharp and her stepson, William Cooley; grandchildren, Tyler J. Sharp, Madison Wells, Jared Bibby, Brittany Sharp, McKenzie Copeland, Peyton Weatherwax, Blake Sharp, Macey Fortenberry, Braden Sharp, Caleb Fortenberry, Andrew Dale, Alli Dale and Miranda Dale, sisters, Linda Taylor and Brenda Cornelius; one niece and two nephews.

David Mustrud
David Mastrud, 70, of Cisco died Sunday, April 18, 2010. Arrangements are pending with North’s Funeral Home 242 Orange St.

Robert Wade
Robert Clinton Wade was born December 29, 1958 in Anson, Texas to Bobby and Bethene Wade. He married Cynthia Alexander on August 15, 1991 in Albany, Texas. Robby’s passion was his children and loved being with them. He was a member of the Church of Christ and a 1977 graduate of Stamford High School. Robby was a truck driver and enjoyed playing golf and bull riding. Robby was preceded in death by one sister Angela Wade; grandparents, Alfred Wade, Mozelle Wade Owens, Robert (Tee) Barbee and Ethel Barbee. Robby is survived by his wife Cynthia A.Wade of Moran; one son, Jeremy Wade Botkin of Buda, Texas; four daughters, Jennifer Diane Wade of Fresno, CA., Patricia, Crystal and Tiffany Wade, all of Moran; three step-sons; James Alexander of Abilene, Kenneth and Jesse Alexander of Moran, two granddaughters, Lily and Violet Botkin of Buda, Texas; his parents Bobby and Bethene Wade of Stamford; a sister and brother-in-law Tamera and Steve McLaren of Anson, a niece, Jessica and husband Brandon Elkin of Anson; a nephew, Cory McLaren of College Station; a great nephew Brayden Elkin of Anson; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and a special friend Herman Polk. Memorial Services will be held at 2:00 PM at Kinney-Underwood Funeral Chapel on Saturday, April 17, 2010. Memorials: In lieu of flowers please make donations to Hendrick Cancer Center, 1900 Pine Street, Abilene, Texas 79601; or Hendrick Hospice, 1682 Hickory Street, Abilene, Texas 79601.

Ollie Moran
CISCO- Ollie Gilbert Moran, 88, of Cisco passed away April 15, 2010. Services will be Saturday at 2:00 PM at the Calvary Baptist Church officiated by Reverend Zach Tunnell and under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Oakwood Cemetery. Ollie was born October 6, 1921, in Ft. Worth, Texas, to Gilbert and Lucy (Yarborough) Moran. He attended the Carbon Public School. He later attended Cisco Junior College and majored in auto mechanics. During World War II Ollie served his country in the Medical Corps. On July 18, 1947, Ollie and Christine Poe were married in Scranton, TX. Since that time, they have celebrated 62 anniversaries. Ollie was a long-time Baptist and a member of the Calvary Baptist Church. Survivors include his wife, Christine; son, Randy Moran and wife, Shirley, of Cisco; daughter, Arlene Holland and husband, Jay, of Stephenville; six grandsons, Benji Honea, Josh Honea, Nick Moran, Chris Moran, Jason Holland and Clint Holland; four great grandchildren, Shelby Honea, Harper Honea, Hagan Black and Oliver Thomas Moran. He will be missed by nieces, nephews and a host of friends. Ollie was preceded in death by one daughter, Charlotte Honea. The grandsons, who will be serving as pallbearers, and Ollie’s son, Randy, will be wearing their Papa’s ties.

Tony Gomez
Tony F. Gomez was born September 6,1931 in Ranger, Texas and died in Olivehurst, California on April 8, 2010. Beloved son of Candelario and Anita F. Gomez. Leaving behind his children Theresa, Valerie, Sandra, Marilyn, Beatrice, and Yolanda Gomez. Tony Gomez served in the Marine Corps, and fought for his Country in the Korean War. Public Viewing will be held on Sunday, April 18th, from 1pm to 4-pm at Holycross Memorial Services, 486 Bridge Street, Yuba City, Ca 95991. Funeral Services will be on Monday, April 19, from 2- 2:30 pm at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Road, Dixon, CA 95620. Tony was the brother to the late Roy Gomez of Ranger.

Frank 'Gene' McDougal
ABILENE- Frank “Gene” McDougal, 61, of Abilene, died Sunday, April 11, 2010, at a local hospital. Chapel services were held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at Community Memorial Funeral. Don Woods officiated. Burial followed at Elmwood Memorial Park. The family received friends Wednesday at the funeral home. Gene was born in Lamesa, Texas on January 22, 1949, to Frank Earl and Gladys (Sealy) McDougal. He was a master watchmaker and loved to hunt and fish and had a love for animals. He was also an avid poker player. Survivors are his wife, Rita McDougal; his mother, Gladys Henley; a brother, Mike McDougal of Mineral Wells; sisters, Glenda Friery of North Carolina, Yonna Green of Clyde, Dora Hosman of East Texas, Debra Chadwick of Tennessee; sisters-in-law, Carol Hudson of Abilene, Linda Finch of Eastland and LaDonna Wilson of Abilene; brother-in-law, Sam Whitworth, Jr.; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Frank E. McDougal; a brother, Ben McDougal and Sam Whitworth, Sr.

Alice Hancock
Funeral services for Alice Carlene Hancock of Midland, TX were held at the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco on Friday, April 16, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. C.T. Floyd officiating. Alice Carlene Hancock, 78, went to her Heavenly Father on April 12, 2010 at the Inpatient Hospice Unit at Midland Memorial Hospital. She liked for people to call her “Carlene” or “GiGi.” Carlene was born in Cisco, TX on September 15, 1931 to Carl and Dorothy Moates. She married John H. Kent in 1948 in Cisco, TX. Through this union they had two boys, Steve and Gary Kent. She remarried in 1981 to Lee Hancock in Burnett, TX. She resided in Round Rock, TX for 14 years until he passed away in January 2003. She worked at South Western Bell for 35 years and retired in 1993. She was a Christian and a member of Crestview Church then she started visiting and attending The Fannin Terrace Baptist Church. God was very important in her life. Carlene was preceded in death by her parents: Carl & Dorothy Moates, her husband Lee Hancock and her son Steve Kent. She is survived by one son Gary and wife Terry Kent of Crane, TX; one granddaughter, Kristen Snider and her husband Jay of Midland, TX; two great grand kids that called her “GiGi,” Austin and Matthew Snider, of Midland, TX; one sister, Billie Blair of Burnett, TX; 2 nephews and 1 niece. She will be missed by everyone who knew her. Memorials to be made to Hopice if Midland, Tx. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Stanton Memorial Funeral Home & Chapel.

Mozell Stroud
EASTLAND – Mozell Stroud, 79, of Ranger passed away April 15, 2010 in Eastland. Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 17, 2010 at Eastland City Cemetery. Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday. Mozell was born on June 30, 1930 in Waldron, AK to Andrew and Mattie (Malone) Holmes. Mozell worked for Hollywood Vassarette in Eastland for approximately 15 years, Wynn Dixie in Arlington, TX for approximately 4 years and retired from Bob and Lucil Carrols with 18 years of service. Mozell loved to quilt, crochet and cook. She was a loving and caring person who loved her family and will be greatly missed. She is preceded in death by her mother, Mattie Fisher, son Roy Stroud Jr., daughter Carolyn Keele Stroud, brothers Loyd Holmes, Jack Holmes and Melvin Holmes and sister-in-law Lucil Holmes. She is survived by her son Jerry Stroud of Ranger, grandchildren Regina Baker of Strawn, Jeffery Stroud of Arlington and Kimberly Stroud of Arlington, great-grandsons Laramie Stroud, Justice Baker and Garrison Baker all of Strawn.

Annie McMinn
EASTLAND - Annie McMinn, 88, of Olden passed away April 12, 2010 in Eastland. Graveside services were held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 14 at the Eastland City Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland. Annie was born March 7, 1922 in Munich, Germany. Annie married M.L. “Monk” McMinn on January 12, 1950. She worked as a pottery worker at Horton’s ceramics in Eastland. Annie was a member of the Olden Church of Christ. Annie is survived by her nieces and nephews.

Carole Pyburn
COMANCHE- Carole Pyburn, 77, died Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at her residence in Comanche, Texas. Funeral services were held Saturday, April 17, 2010 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Comanche. Carole Pippen was born in Cisco, Texas on May 30, 1932. She graduated from Cisco High School in 1949 where she was a baton twirler and head drum majorette in the high school band. In 1953 she graduated from Howard Payne College with a degree in business. She attended Howard Payne University on a band and baton-twirling scholarship, and while there she studied art and also twirled a baton - sometimes even two- for the Yellow Jacket Band. Carole married Ben D. Sudderth in September 1953 and while he served as a State Representative, she served as the secretary to Texas Attorney General Price Daniel. In 1958, they moved to Comanche and she began teaching 4th grade. Throughout the years she taught private art lessons to children and adults in the community and across the state. An accomplished professional artist Carole won numerous awards at juried art shows throughout Texas. In the 1980’s she served on the faculty of the Howard Payne Univ. Art Department where she taught drawing. On May 4, 1982, Carole married Jerry D. Pyburn. Together they achieved their real estate agents and brokers licenses and formed Pyburn Real Estate in Comanche. Over the years Carole managed to place a paint brush in the hands of everyone of her grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Momo” and who will miss her greatly. Survivors are her husband, Jerry Pyburn; son, Ben H. “Bo” Sudderth; daughters, Sandi Sudderth Otero and husband, Michael, Bonnie Sudderth and husband, Chris Wiegard; step-son, Marshall Pyburn; brother, David L. Pippen and wife, Sheila; sisters, Glenna Reeves and Gloria Turner; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one son, Skylar B. Sudderth and her parents, Luke and Wini Pippen.

Lawrence Keeney
CISCO- Lawrence Dale Keeney, 79, of Cisco passed away April 9, 2010, at his home. Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM Monday, April 12, 2010 at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Reverend Justin Kreig. Burial was in Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation was at the funeral home with family and friends will be Sunday from 4:00-6:00 PM. Mr. Keeney was born in Dallas, Texas on March 1, 1931 to Dalton Bert and Ona Voleta (Childers) Keeney. He married Frankie Prickett on May 12, 1951 in Cisco and served in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He worked in construction as a self employed concrete finisher and was a Baptist and a member of the American Legion. He is survived by his wife Frankie; sons, Larry Keeney and wife Michelle of Antioch, California, Jerry Keeney and wife Paula of Richland Hills, Texas; daughter, Judy Keeney husband Greg of Camino, California; grandchildren, Matthew, Kristen, Nicholas, Chad, Chris and Julia, Ryan and Kaylan Keeney; 3 great grandchildren, Wyatt, Cole, and Madison Keeney.

LaVerne Meeks
FORT WORTH -- After suffering a long battle with Alzheimer’s, LaVerne Cornelius Meeks, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on Sunday, April 11, 2010. Service: A visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 15 at Thompson’s Harveson and Cole where her funeral will begin at 11 a.m. Interment: 3 p.m. Thursday in Eastland Cemetery. Memorials: Alzheimer’s Association, 101 Summit Ave., Fort Worth, Texas 76102. LaVerne was born on July 5, 1931, in Eastland. She was the daughter of the late entrepreneur Victor Waylon Cornelius and Inez Pettit Cornelius. She graduated from Eastland High School in 1948. After high school, she attended the University of Texas at Austin, at the age of seventeen. She studied Elementary Education and was a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority. While at the University of Texas, she met and married Charles Munson Meeks of San Antonio. Shortly after their marriage, the couple moved to Houston where she taught second grade. After Charles Meeks graduated from the University of Houston, he served in the Army and the couple moved to Virginia, Germany and New Mexico through the service. After he completed service, the growing family settled in New Orleans, La. Following the couple’s divorce, LaVerne moved to Fort Worth in 1978. In Fort Worth, she became an active member of the community and contributor to the arts. She served as a docent at The Amon Carter Museum for more than a decade. She participated in Fort Worth society as a member of Colonial Country Club, Fort Worth Woman’s Club, Christ Chapel Church, and the Fort Worth Garden Club. LaVerne was a business woman and served on the board of her father’s company, Victor Cornelius, Inc. She took over the company following her father’s passing and helped carry the business into the new millennium. LaVerne loved to travel and share her experiences with her family. She loved to see new places and even survived a coup d’etat in Kathmandu, Nepal. Through everything she helped push her family to see the world and expect more in life. She was a strong woman who knew what she wanted. She would not settle for mediocrity and would not let those around her settle for less. Her family is grateful to the staff of the Mayfair Unit of Monticello West in Dallas. They loved her and took care of her until the end. Survivors: Her children, Cary Meeks and wife, Marissa, of Eastland, Chris Meeks of New Orleans, and Teresa Meeks Bristol and husband, Mark, of Dallas; grandchildren Cody Meeks of San Francisco, Lindsay Meeks of New York, Ben and Andrew Meeks of Eastland, Katie Grace Meeks, Meredith Meeks and Charles Meeks of New Orleans, Audrey and Chloe Bristol of Dallas; sister Catherine Germany; niece Lisa Germany Ziegler of Nashville. Thompson’s Harveson & Cole Funeral Home and Crematory. 702 Eighth Ave., Fort Worth, Texas 76104 817-336-0345

Danelle Alldredge
EASTLAND - Danelle Dwight Alldredge, age 63, died Saturday, April 10, 2010 in Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas, TX. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 14 at 1:00 P.M. at the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland, TX. Burial will follow in the Oakland Cemetery between Gorman and Duster. Danny was born March 22, 1947 at Fort Sill, OK to Floyd and Bonnie Jean (Weir) Alldredge. He was a graduate of Lawton High School and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country from 1965 to 1970. Serving in Vietnam with his brother Doug and his father, Floyd. He was trained as a Gunner’s Mate on various weapons systems. Danny served as crew chief aboard river patrol boats involved in a combat environment. He then volunteered and served an additional year in Vietnam ending in 1970. Among numerous awards and accolades he earned the distinctive Navy/Marine Corps Accommodation Medal with a “V” for exceptional valor. After his honorable discharge from the Navy he moved back to Lawton, Oklahoma where he met and later married his wonderful wife Carole on 02 November 1971. Danny spent his business career as a manager for Stuckey’s, Allsup’s Food Stores, and finally Wal-Mart at several locations throughout the central part of Texas ending up in Crowley for the past several years. Danny courageously fought a long hard battle to survive a debilitating life threatening illness. He loved his large family and enjoyed spending time and socializing with them. He is survived by his wife, Carole Alldredge of Crowley, TX; their five children, Terry, Leighanne, Damon, Douglas, and Danny; his mother, Bonnie Jean Alldredge of Ozark, AL; his brother, Dale Alldredge of Ozark, AL; and his nine grandchildren.

Billy Hester, Sr.
Billy Wayne Hester, Sr., age 81 of Clyde, passed away Saturday, April 10, 2010 in Abilene. Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at the Graveside in the Pioneer Cemetery with Doyle Roberts officiating. He was born on November 25, 1928 in Cross Plains to C.B. and Gertrude (Brown) Hester. He married Lucille Horton in Colorado City on May 3, 1955 she preceded him in death on February 9, 2008. He was self employed as a Dairy Farmer and later as a restaurant owner. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Clyde and a Mason. He is survived by his daughters, Karla Roberts and husband Craig of Clyde, and Nancy Bacon and husband Truman of Cisco; sons, Kenneth Hester of Hurst; Billy Hester Jr. and wife Martha of Conroe; Rickey Hester of Conroe; several nieces and cousins; eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Lucille, daughter Shirley, Grandson Bruce Phillips and sister Mildred Naylor.

Doris Norton
EASTLAND – Doris Williamson Norton, 88, of Eastland, lovingly went into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 10, 2010 in Eastland. Services were held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, April 13 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland with Rev. Craig Rhoton officiating. Burial will follow in the Eastland City Cemetery. Mrs. Norton was born on December 17, 1921 in Eastland to Lee Galton and Atha Eula (Owens) Williamson. She graduated from Olden High School where she married Wilbert Eugene Norton. She was a bookkeeper for many years and a long-time member of the Olden Baptist Church. Mr. Norton preceded her in death on November 26, 1985. She was also preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, L.J. “Lee” Williamson. Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Debra & John Daniels of Cisco; a brother, A.G. Williamson & his wife Nelda of Graham; 2 grandchildren, Sean Daniels of Cisco and Tiffany Reeves of Eastland; 2 great-grandchildren, Riley Reeves and Jett Reeves; and 8 nieces and nephews.

Lora Schafer
EASTLAND – Lora Burleson Schafer passed away April 6, 2010, in Abilene, Texas. Visitation was held Friday, April 9 from 6 – 8 PM at the Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland. Services will be at the Eastland First United Methodist Church Saturday, April 10 at 10 AM with Rev. J. Bryan Patrick and Larry Roberts officiating. Burial will be at the Eastland Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Lora was born to Floyd and Ellen Adams Burleson on July 7, 1961. After her parents passed away, Lora was raised by her mother’s twin sister and her husband Helen and Pierre Kendrick in Cisco. Lora graduated from Cisco High School, and received her LVN from TSTC. She married Brian Schafer on December 29, 1990, in Eastland. Lora was a devoted wife, mother, “nana,” daughter, nurse, co-worker, and friend. She touched many lives as home health care nurse with Girling. Lora is survived by her husband Brian; her son and daughter-in-law Rodney and Gena McCormick; her daughter and son-in-law Crystal and Ronnie Harris; her grandson Kevin Harris (all of Eastland); her brother and sister-in-law Gale and Cindy Burleson of Cisco; her mother-in-law and father-in-law Pat and Jim Schafer of Eastland; and numerous nieces and nephews; as well as former patients and friends. Lora was predeceased by and a brother Bruce Burleson, her parents, Helen and Pierre Kendrick, and a niece Lilly Hass. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718 or www.cancer.org.

Henry Baker
RANGER– Henry Paul Baker, 68, went to be with the Lord on April 7, 2010. Services will be held Sunday, April 11, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Ranger with Bryan Patrick officiating. Burial will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday from 6 to 8 at Edwards Funeral Home. Henry was originally from New York and moved to Ranger in 1978. He worked for the City of Ranger for many years, as well as Featherlight in Ranger. He was also an active member of the United Methodist Church of Ranger. Henry was a very family oriented man, who loved spending time with his family. Henry is survived by his four brothers and two sisters, all of New York; four sons, Keith Baker, and wife, Michelle, of Eastland, Kevin Baker, and wife Angelica, of Ranger, Eric Baker of Eastland and Scott Morhouse and family; six grandchildren, Amelia Baker, Chance Lee, Brittany Baker, Cassandra Willingham, Brandi Crawford, Kyle Crawford and one on the way; and many friends. Henry was a kind and loving man that will be greatly missed by many.

Launette Veal
RANGER – Launette Veal, 80, passed away April 5, 2010 in Humble, TX. Services was held Thursday, April 8, 2010 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation was held Wednesday, April 7 from 4 to 6 p.m. Burial followed at Alameda Cemetery. Launette was born in Gorman, TX, June 26, 1929 to Faughn and Oma (Wilson) Shook. She graduated from Azle high school. She later moved to Ft. Worth and then to Ranger where she lived for more than 30 years. She married Howard (Jack) Veal on June 16, 1956. Launette was a member of the Eastside Baptist Church. A lifelong home maker, she was a loving and caring lady who loved to spend time with her family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, and her husband, Jack Veal, in 2005. She is survived by her sons, Donny Veal and wife Linda of Austin, TX ,and Jimmy Veal and wife ILO of Splendora, TX, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, sister Vonnie Mainka of Andrews, TX and brother Burl Shook of Gorman, TX.

Mary Anna King
RANGER- Mary Anna King, 65, of Ranger passed away April 4, 2010 in Ranger, TX. Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 10, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Ranger. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery. There will be no visitation. Mary was born in Ranger on December 7, 1944 to Milard and Doris (McClesky) Herweck. She attended St. Rita’s preschool in Ranger then Young Elementary and graduated from RHS in 1964. She was a leading scorer in the 1st RHS Lady Bulldog Basketball team with her famous Granny Free-throw. She also ran track and won every Intramural event she was in. Mary attended the Stephenville School of Nursing in 1966 through 1967. She was a loving and caring person. Mary loved giving cards to many people. She had a wonderful personality and loved sharing her stories with her friends. She is survived by her son, James King and wife Sandra of Temple, Tx, daughter, Deborah Root of Belton, TX, brothers, Rich Herweck and wife Karen of Dripping Springs, TX, and Mel Herweck and wife Elaine of Hawley, TX, five grandchildren, Christopher Anderson, Kevin Anderson, Tyler Packwood, Julian King and Heather Root and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Kenneth York
SULPHUR SPRINGS - Kenneth York of Sulphur Springs, formerly of Cisco, died Friday, April 2, 2010 at East Texas Medical Center in Tyler. Kenneth was born September 6, 1930 in Johntown, Texas to Thomas Alfred and Josephine York. He was raised in the Johntown/Bogata area of Red River County in East Texas and graduated from Talco High School in 1948. He joined the Air Force after high school and served his country from 1950 to 1954 as an instructor at Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls. He married LoAnna Holder of Cisco February 3, 1951. After his discharge from the Air Force, Kenneth attended Cisco Jr. College and worked for the Cisco Press. He later worked at the Electra Star-News and, in 1966, moved to Clyde and joined the staff of the Abilene Reporter-News. He retired from there in 1992 and lived in Cisco for a short period before returning to Red River County. Kenneth was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, four sisters, two brothers, and a great-grandson. He is survived by three sons, Steve and wife Darah of Brownfield, John of Sulphur Springs and Ray of Cisco; two daughters, Ann Eckols and husband Joe of Granger and Sue of Cisco; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren: Jessica Eckols, Kyle and Kayla of Coleman, Jacob York, wife Kathy and Clara of Roanoke, Mary York of Greenville, Adam York of Odessa, Dana Little, husband Billy, Taryn and Tyler of Georgetown, Sarah York of Greenville, and David York, wife Patricia, Jay and Alicia of Cisco. A memorial service will be held Sunday, April 11, 2010 at 3:00 PM at the Johntown Missionary Baptist Church in Johntown, Texas.

Robert Briggs, Jr.
Private graveside services for Robert Briggs, Jr, 61, of Cleburne, Texas were conducted Tuesday, April 06, 2010 in Rosehill Cemetery. The Rev. Steve McCoy officiated. Mr. Briggs passed away on Thursday, April 1, 2010, in Cleburne. He was born in Harlingen, Texas on February 20, 1949, the son of Melba (Cotney) and Robert Emery Briggs. Mr. Briggs was a licensed vocational nurse. He was a patient, kind, and loving person; beloved husband, and father. He is preceded in death by his parents. Mr. Briggs is survived by his wife, Sherry of Cleburne; sons, Michael Dunn and wife, Edith, of Eastland, Texas and Eric Briggs and wife, Marca of Cleburne; daughter, Brandy Briggs of Cleburne; sisters, Dolly Hill and husband, John of Oregon and Patsy Wiesche and husband, Don, of Harlingen, Texas; nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Condolences may be sent to the family at condolences@rosserfuneralhome.net.

James Lassiter
James T. Lassiter, age 80, of Temple died Sunday, March 28, 2010 in a local continuing care center. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 PM Wednesday, April 7, at North Belton Cemetery with Rev. Don Lynn officiating. Mr. Lassiter was born on August 6, 1929 in Stephens County to Chaney (Red) Lassiter and Lottie Thackerson Lassiter. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army serving during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany until he was honorable discharged. Jim, as his friends knew him, had a strong faith in Jesus Christ. He was truly a good Christian person who dedicated his life to God and believed in serving Him in all aspects of his life. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Temple for nearly 40 years. He also was totally devoted, not just to his wife, Dorothy, but to all of his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were a joy to his life. Jim was a diehard Temple Wildcat supporter. Not only did he and Dorothy hold season tickets on the 50 yard line for over 30 years, they attended all the football games out-of-town, no matter how far the had to travel to se the “Cats” play. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife of 35 years, Dorothy E. Lassiter and a grandson, Christopher B. Wollard. Survivors include his sister and brother-in-law, Iva Lea and Garland Payne of Hamlin, two daughters, Sherry Lewis of Waco and Sandra Shaffner of Temple, four grandchildren, Steven Blake Wollard and wife, Carol of Grapevine, Lauren Kay Pruitt and husband, Todd of Waco, Stephanie Wollard of Dearborn, Michigan and Susan Teer of Belton, six great-grandchildren, Katie and Grace Wollard of Dearborn, Michigan, Kyler, Caleb and Ainsley Pruitt of Waco and Brant Prewitt of Grapevine. Also surviving are two sisters-in-law, Glenda Jo Henderson of Temple , Darline Womack of Fort Worth , one niece, Ann Cunningham of Hamlin and many great nieces and great nephews.
Memorial donations may be made to First Christian Church, 300 N. 5th St . , Temple , TX 76501. Scanio-Harper Funeral Home, 3110 Airport Road, Temple, TX 76504 is in charge of arrangements. Scanio-Harper, Boyd Thornton, Funeral Director #6293

Mildred Roberts
GORMAN- Mildred Jean Roberts, age 83 passed away Monday, April 5, 2010 at the Homestead Nursing & Rehab of Gorman. Graveside services were held at 3:30 P. M. Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at the DeLeon Cemetery with Denver Rainey officiating. Funeral services under the direction of Higginbotham Funeral Home in Gorman. Mildred was born August 21, 1926 in Comanche County to Buford Gordon Thomas and Bertha Woffenbarger Thomas. She married Thomas N. Roberts on April 26, 1945 in Tyler, Texas. He preceded her in death on August 30, 2005. Mildred was a homemaker and a member of the Baptist Church. Survivors include three sons, Kennard Roberts and wife, Doylena of Gustine, Marshall “Bo” Roberts and wife, Anna Lee of Gorman and Rodney Roberts of Midland; eleven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sons, R. G. Warren and Cary Roberts, and two sisters, Gaynell Hicks and Joy Lafern Grisham.

Martha Notgrass
CLYDE- Martha Lanham Notgrass, 70, of Clyde, died Friday, April 2, 2010 at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene. Services were held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, April 5, 2010 at Zion Lutheran Church, Abilene, Texas. Burial followed at 3:30 p.m. at the Nimrod Cemetery in Nimrod, Texas. Bailey-Howard Funeral Home of Clyde was in charge of the arrangements. Martha was born on July 9, 1939 in Cisco, Texas to Herman and Winona (Scarlet) Lanham. She attended school in Cisco. She married Kenneth Notgrass in San Angelo on February 14, 1958. Martha was preceded in death by her parents and her husband; sisters, Doris Snyder, Ruth Lanham, and Linda Lanham; brothers, Steve Lanham and Dennis Lanham; brother-in-law, Jack Snyder; and sister-in-law, Donna Fay Lanahm. Survivors are a sister, Frances Johnson of Fort Worth; brothers, Dwight Lanham and wife Alpha of Waco, Jim Lanham and wife Gaye of Abilene, Mike Lanham and wife Kathy of Abilene, and Ralph Lanham and wife Karen of Fort Worth; and sisters-in-law, Kaye Lanham of Abilene and Sandra McVey of Granbury; daughter, Judy Toponce and husband Larry of Buffalo Gap; sons, Paul Notgrass and wife Sue of Abilene, Carl Notgrass and wife Diana of Clyde, Charles Notgrass and wife Belinda of Abilene, Donnie Notgrass of Clyde, and Steve Notgrass of Tuscola. For the last thirty years, Martha’s life centered around her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Grandchildren are: Elizabeth Carrillo of Florida, Stephanie Beddo of Ballinger, Tommy Notgrass of Abilene, Toni Watts of Buffalo Gap, Shane Toponce of Amarillo, Christopher Toponce and wife Susan of Abilene, Wendy Klohn and husband Jerry of Abilene, Jill Benfer and husband Kent of Fort Worth, Michael Notgrass of Abilene, Erin Notgrass of Abilene, and Tara Notgrass of Abilene. Great-grandchildren: Hunter, Kalli, Jewel, Scarlet, Elizabeth, Brandon, Britney, Jonathan, Matthew, Ashton, Stormy, Ethan, Austin, Zoey and Maddie; and many nieces and nephews who she loved like her own.

L. J. 'Blackie' Linney
L. J. “Blackie” Linney, 74, of Rising Star, Texas passed away on Friday, April 2, 2010 in Rising Star Nursing Center in Rising Star, Texas. Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM, Monday, April 5, 2010 at First Baptist Church in Rising Star, Texas with Terry Simmons officiating. Burial was in the Rising Star Cemetery in Rising Star, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in Charge. Blackie was born on November 11, 1935 in Midland, Texas to Lester Erving Linney and Juanita Jewel Kinsey-Linney. He was a member of the First Baptist Church. He was a farmer and a pipe liner. He lived in the Rising Star Community for all his life. He is survived by his 2 sons, Bobby Linney and his wife, April of Brownwood; Tommy Linney and his wife, Vicki of Grandview; brother, Billy Don “Bud” Linney of Rising Star; 5 sisters, Barbara White of Rising Star; Carolyn Chambers of Brownwood; Sandie Hutton of Rising Star; Debra Ann Chambers of May; Patricia Hutton of Rising Star; 5 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. Bobby and Tommy Linney’s mother, Geneva Bethany; best friend and longtime companion, Dale Hammer. He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 brothers, Aubrey Gale; Ervin Dale and Lonnie Ray Linney; sister, Peggy Lynn Roan.

Oddus 'Odie' Merrifield
EASTLAND - Oddus Iantha Merrifield (Odie) , 71 of Eastland passed away Monday, March 29, 2010 after a courageous battle with cancer. Visitation with family was held Wednesday, March 31, 2010 from 6-8 pm at the Summer Bakker Funeral Home in Eastland, Texas. Graveside services were held at 11:00 am Thursday, April 1, 2010 at Staff Cemetery in Eastland, Texas officiated by Paul Howie, Pastor of the Leon River Cowboy Church in Eastland, Texas under the direction of Summer Bakker Funeral Home. Odie was born in Ballinger, Texas on December 3, 1938 to Oddus and Frances Merrifield. He grew up in Big Lake, Texas where he excelled in sports. After serving in the US Army for two years he attended college in San Marcus. He married his wife Kay on November 27, 1962. They spent many years in Dallas and the surrounding areas where he was in the real estate business and a contractor. After moving to Eastland he opened a business in Ranger where he could pursue his love for antiques and collectibles. Odie was a member of the Leon River Cowboy Church. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Kay, son Odie and wife Melissa of Eastland, Texas. He is survived by his sister Linda and husband David Brewer of Eastland, his brother Ronnie and wife Evelyn Merrifield of Brownwood, Texas: Daughters, Kathleen and husband Charles Brown of Camargo, OK, Renee and husband Chuck Fouts of Waxahachie, Texas and Tammy and husband Bobby Burns of Pampa, Texas. He is also survived by ten grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Honorary pallbearers will be Aaron Fouts, Dayson Fouts, Terry Rose, Curtis Whitlock, Greg Fish, Danny Fish, Jay Storm, Chris Russell, David Burns and John Burns. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. He left an immense footprint on this Earth that will be impossible to fill and an even greater heart print on those who loved and will miss him.

Ronnie Chick
EASTLAND – Ronnie Chick, 60, of Eastland, passed away Monday, March 29, 2010 in Eastland. Services were held at 2:00 P.M. Thursday, April 1, 2010 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel with Randy Beggs officiating. Burial followed in the Eastland City Cemetery. Ronnie was born on November 10, 1949 in Perryton, TX. He was a farmer and rancher all his life. He loved horses, western movies and enjoyed spending time with family & friends. Ronnie was a Baptist. Survivors include 2 brothers, Steve Chick and his wife Theresa of Eastland and Alan Chick and his wife Marla of Weatherford; 1 sister, Sharon Lewis and her husband Harvey of Paris, TX; several nieces and nephews, including Allison Northrop, Keith Salamy, Bubba & Melissa Lewis, Brandon & Melissa Lewis, Launa Medford. Shannon Bourland, Joni & Kevin West, and Nathan & Whitney Chick; and 8 great-nieces and nephews.

Audine Johnson
EASTLAND- Audine Johnson, 88, passed away on March 31, 2010 at Windcrest Nursing and Rehab Center in Fredericksburg, TX. Services were held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 3, 2010 at the Summers-Bakker Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Jim Andrews officiating. Interment followed at Long Branch Cemetery under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. Audine was born on October 4, 1921 in Rochester, TX to Clarence and Annis (Brock) Brasher. Audine married John Johnson on June 4, 1952 in Hobbs, New Mexico. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Eastland and was a homemaker. Audine is survived by her husband: John Johnson of Fredericksburg, TX., 3 sons and daughters-in-law: Kenneth and Sheila Reed of Garden Dale, TX., Larry and Sue Reed of Amarillo, TX. and Charles Reed, 3 daughters and sons-in-law: Fay and J.B. Whittle of Olive Branch, Mississippi, Debra and Jim Kerr of Fredericksburg, TX., and Joan and Dennis Schrack of Monroe, Washington. . She is also survived by 1 brother: Curtis Brasher of Temple, TX., and sister: Helen Jordon of Abilene, TX., 10 grandchildren, and 10 great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers the family request memorial be made to Alzheimer’s Disease.

Donald 'Don' Popp
HAMLIN- Donald “Don” A. Popp, 71, died Tuesday, March 30, 2010, in Hamlin. Funeral mass was at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 1, 2010 at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Michael Melcher officiating. Burial was in Dodson Prairie Cemetery in Gordon, directed by Adams-Foster-Ray Funeral Home of Hamlin. Don was born January 7, 1939, in Dodson Prairie to Charlie and Claire Popp. He graduated from Gordon High School and later served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was a retired business owner and a member of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Don married Cathie Carter on July 20, 1990. He loved his dogs Moe and Joe, going fishing and tending to his garden. He was preceded in death by his parents Charlie and Claire Popp. Survivors are his wife, Cathie Popp of Hamlin; stepsons, Craig and Lyle Carter; sisters, Patricia Boerner and husband, J.R. of Pilot Point, Charlene Bearden and husband, Douglas of Mingus, Margaret Conditt and husband, Larry of Durant, OK, and Carolyn Doyle and husband, Kinneth of Long Camp; grandchildren, Stephen Carter, Brianna Carter and Tanna Ledbetter; six nieces; three nephews; and many other loving family and friends.

James Smith
ABILENE- James H. Smith, 85, died Monday, March 29, 2010 at an Abilene medical center. Graveside services were held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 1, 2010 in Moran Cemetery in Moran, Texas. Pastor Clyde Kieschnick officiated, directed by The Hamil Family Funeral Home of Abilene. The son of Zola (Blackstock) and James William Smith, James was born in Moran, Texas in Shackelford County. He had a strong bond with his family and the land owned by his family for over 100 years. He was a lifelong farmer, rancher, and resident of both Moran and Abilene. James had a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University. He was a mechanical engineer for Lone Star Gas Company and a Licensed Professional Engineer, retiring after 38 years. James was companionable to everyone and his word was his bond. He had a remarkable natural mechanical ability and could fix anything. He was a U.S. Army Air Corps veteran of World War II, and member of the American Legion Post #343. His parents and siblings, Eula King, Anna Ray Gage, Travis Smith, Olan Smith and Willard Smith, preceded him in death. Survivors are his sons, Mark Smith and wife Kathy of Lytle, Texas, Joe Smith and James Wesley Smith both of Austin; daughter, Carol Smith of Abilene; three grandchildren, Samwise Smith of Texas Tech, and Emily Smith and Crystal Smith both of Austin; along with numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post #343, 111 Ground St., Moran, TX 76464; Moran Cemetery Association P.O. Box 96 Moran, TX 76464; or National Ranching Heritage Center Museum, P.O. Box 43200, Lubbock, TX 79409-3200.

Alton Fleming
CLYDE- Alton Willie Fleming, 83, of Clyde, Texas died March 30, 2010 at Abilene Regional Hospital. Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Friday, April 2, 2010 at the First United Methodist Church of Clyde with Rev. James Holman officiating. Burial was in the Clyde Cemetery directed by Bailey-Howard Funeral Home. Mr. Fleming was born April 18, 1926 in Big Spring, Texas to John and Bama Fleming. He married Joyce Harris on November 2, 1948. He worked as a Hydraulic Mechanic for the Civil Service at Sheppard Air Force Base and Dyess Air Force Base after serving in the Army during WW II. He retired from the Civil Service in 1981 after 32 years of service. He also worked at the Abilene State School as a mechanic for 10 years retiring in 1991. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Clyde. Survivors are his wife, Joyce of Clyde; one daughter, Lisa Carmony and husband Bill of Slaton; one son, Jack and wife Margaret of Amarillo; one daughter-in-law, Karen Fleming of Little Rock, Arkansas; four grandchildren, Amanda Fleming of State College, Pennsylvania, Sarah Gaither and husband Jeff of Hooker, Oklahoma, Clinton Fleming of Amarillo and KaraLyn Carmony of Lubbock; one sister, Patty Killough of Waco; two sisters-in-law, Marilyn Fleming and Velma Hogan both of Cisco; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Danny Fleming; three brothers and two sisters. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Clyde 217 Oak Street, Clyde, TX 79510-4704 or the American Diabetes Association.

George Fox
George Louis Fox, 79, of Rising Star, passed away Tuesday, March 31, 2010 at Eastland Hospital in Eastland, Texas. Graveside services were held at 2:00 P.M., Saturday, April 3, 2010 in Merriman Cemetery in Ranger, Texas with Danny Lee officiating. Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star will be in charge of the arrangements. George was born April 19, 1930 in Lamesa, Texas to Claude Eugene Fox and Emma Mae Ivey-Fox. He married Barbara Jane Lee on May 28, 1970 in Rising Star, Texas. He was a self-employed mechanic, fence contractor and raised cattle. He was a member of the community all his life. He served in the United States Army. He was a member of the Pioneer Baptist Church. He lived in Rising Star for 67 years. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Fox of Rising Star; 2 sons, Jimmy Louis Fox of Anchorage, AK and Brady Fox of Rising Star, TX; brother, Herman Eugene “Bud” Fox of Granbury, TX; 2 sisters, Linda Martin of Breckenridge, TX and Bernice Court of Eastland, TX.; 15 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 daughters, Sandra Conley, Starla Rushing and Carolyn Bozeman; 3 brothers, Ivey, James, Melvin and Claudie Fox, and 2 sisters, Wanda Jacoby and Lucille Harrigl.

Charles Cozby
CLYDE- Charles Leon Cozby, 74, of Clyde died Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at an Abilene hospital. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 3, 2010 at the Bailey-Howard Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Larry Hooper officiating. Burial followed in the Clyde Cemetery. Mr. Cozby was born April 8, 1935 in Gordon, Texas to Charles Leo and Opal Louise (Main) Cozby. He graduated in Gordon and served in the US Army. He married Carolyn Seals on April 1, 1981 in Guyman, Oklahoma. They moved to Clyde from Abilene in 1981. He owned and operated Cozby Pain & Body Shop. He was a member of Northside Baptist Church in Abilene. Survivors are his wife, Carolyn of Clyde; four sons, Charles Lynn “Chuck” Cozby and wife Starleen of Clyde, Ricky Dale Cozby and wife Lela of Alexander, Louisiana, Roger Wayne Brown and wife Melanie and John Samuel Brown both of Clyde; one daughter, Barbee Cozby of Anacoco, Louisiana; one sister, Elizabeth Barr and husband Kenneth of Anson; 14 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one granddaughter, Stephanie Earixson Jewell.

Vera Alford
EASTLAND- Vera Lavern Adams Alford, age 86, passed away March 25, 2010 in Fredericksburg. Funeral services were held at 11:00AM, Monday, March 29, 2010 in the Summers-Bakker Chapel with Pastor Larry Roberts officiating. Interment followed at Eastland Cemetery under the direction of Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. Vera was born on October 19, 1923 in Breckenridge to Herbert and Evie Adams. Vera was one of eight children. She attended school in Morton Valley. Vera married Chester Alford in December 1941. Vera and Chester moved to the Dallas area after World War II. She and Chester lived in Lancaster before moving back to Lake Leon in the mid 1970’s. Vera was a loving mother, wife and a Christian. Vera was preceded in death by her husband, Chester Grady Alford, both parents, her son; Timothy Alford, her sisters; Corine Graves and Edith Platt, brothers; Auburn, Ed, and Lamar Adams. Vera is survived by her sons, James Lyn Alford of New Jersey, Gary Alford of Marble Falls, Kenneth Alford of Garland; brother, Gary Adams; sister, Janie Higgins; seven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Wade Beall
Wade Fulton Beall, 87, passed away Friday March 26 in Abilene, Texas. Memorial services were held 11:00 a.m. Monday March 29 in Eastland, Texas at the Edwards Funeral Home. Burial followed at Merriman Cemetery in Ranger directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland. Wade Beall was born June 14, 1922, in Ritchie, Maryland, to John Emory Beall and Pearl (Owens) Beall. He grew up on the family farm as proud brother to 10 siblings Erma, Bessie, Mary, Alta, Louise, June, Calvin, Roy, Willard, and Linwood. He attended the Ritchie School, and graduated from Marlboro High School in 1939. Wade served in the US Navy during World War II aboard the USS Reuben James and was honorably discharged in 1946. He returned to farming after the war. Wade was an excellent athlete and played baseball and soccer in school and as a semi-pro soccer player for the Prince Georges County, Maryland team during the 1950s. Wade began his law enforcement career with the Prince Georges County, Maryland Police Department in 1951, eventually attaining the rank of corporal. He then moved on to US Marshalls Service as a Deputy US Marshall in 1955. The Marshalls Service played a large role in the country’s historical events during Wade’s time with the agency. Two of his many assignments included protecting Robert Kennedy and Watergate trial witnesses. He transferred to Houston in 1968 and retired in 1974. Wade met Frances Harris (Jones) Beall in 1968 and they were married in 1969. The couple lived in Houston, Columbus, Stephenville, Eastland, and Abilene during their journey together. Wade and Frances were members of the Church of Christ, they worked at the Stephenville Foster Home, Tarlton University (bible studies), started and supervised the Christian Service Center in Eastland, and Wade provided bible studies for residents in the Eastland Jail for a total of 16 years of community service. Literally, he was known to give the shirt off his back or the shoes off his feet to others. Wade loved to tell stories, meet new people, and be a kind and gentle man to others, despite his physical trials later in life. His favorite bible verse was Hebrews 11: 1 “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Wade loved reading bible stories of Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and many others who went before us. His survivors include his wife of over 40 years Frances Beall and 3 brothers Roy Beall, Willard Beall, and Linwood Beall. Wade’s children include 3 sons and 1 daughter Tom Jones, Verna Hoefar and her husband Larry, Weldon Jones and his wife Barbara, also Stanley Beall and his wife Thelma. He was also blessed with numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Extended family and loved ones in the area include Katie Baker and Rick Upfold of Abilene Texas. Donations, in Wade’s memory, may be made to the Hendrick Medical Center Hospice in Abilene, Texas.

Larkin Akers
Larkin James Akers died Friday night, March 26, 2010 at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Lafayette, Louisiana. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at Kimbrough Funeral Home in Cisco, Texas. Interment will be in the family plot in the Oakwood Cemetery. Services at the chapel and gravesite will be led by Rev. Timothy Akers and family members. Mr. Akers is survived by: his wife, Doris Lee (Hall) Akers of Youngsville, La; his son James Larkin Akers and wife Toni of Crittenden, KY; Karen Leigh (Akers) Warner and husband Bill of Forest, VA; his daughter Lauren Cea (Akers) Haygood and husband Jim of Lafayette, LA; his son Kright Bee Akers and Jonathan and Samantha of Baton Rouge, LA; three grandsons: Joshua Larkin Akers of Crittenden, KY; Bryan Andrew Warner of Forest, VA; and Henry Hunter Hargett of Lafayette, LA; six granddaughters; Shawna Rachel Akers of Asheville, NC; Gretchen Hall Akers of Austin, TX; Vanessa Leigh Warner of San Francisco, CA; Amanda Lee Hargett of Lafayette, LA; Jessica Anne (Warner) Litchford of Forest, VA; and two brothers: Timothy Akers of Whitney, TX; and Ommer Akers of Atlanta, TX; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Addie (Pharr) Akers, his brother Prinnis Akers, and his sister Etoile Shefler. His parents lived and raised their family primarily in Eastland County, TX. In the latter years they lived in Cisco, TX or the Cisco area. Mr. Akers was born on November 25, 1923 south of Ranger, TX in Eastland County. He attended the Chaney and the Cross Road schools, both located south of Ranger in Eastland county; Oliver Springs school, located northwest of DeLeon, TX in Comanche county; Scranton school, Romney school, Lutheran school and Cisco public schools, all located in Eastland County Texas. He served in the US Navy from April 15, 1942 to January 18, 1946. He was attached to a Line Ship Repair Unit in the south Pacific until the surrender of Japan in 1945. After WW II during 1946- 1947, and part of 1948 he farmed in the Cisco area and worked on the Cisco Police Force. April 1, 1948 he joined the Texas Highway Patrol and served as a Texas Highway Patrolman stationed in Uvalde, TX until October 1, 1951. Mr. Akers attended Southwest Texas Jr. College and Baylor University. He graduated from Baylor University with a BS degree in Geology in 1955. Between the years of 1955 and 1975 he worked for Texaco, Inc. and Hugh A. Hawthorne stationed in Houston, TX; Corpus Christi, TX; Lafayette, LA and New Orleans, LA. In 1975, he formed Akers Oil and Gas Exploration, Inc. in Youngsville, LA and ran it until he retired in 1986. He is a Mason and a member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists.

Melvin Carey
EASTLAND – Melvin Ray Carey was born to Melvin Lane Carey and Angie Ruth Brown on February 22, 1934 in Gunsight, Texas. He went to see his Lord and Savior on March 28, 2010. Ray was a member of the East Side Baptist Church in Cisco and was a long-time contract oil field pumper and rancher. He attended school in Cisco and Eastland. Ray was preceded in death by his loving wife, Leta Fern Lindsey, and a sister, Peggy Lindsey. He is survived by one daughter, Sherry Arther and husband Phillip of Eastland; 2 sons, Rick Carey of Eastland and Tony Carey and wife Jackie of Eastland; 3 granddaughters, Tish Weaver & husband Joe of Eastland, Kalli Stacy & husband Brad of Carbon and Tifni Helms & husband Cory of Lubbock; 2 sisters, Barbara Smith of Sanderson and Kay Bryant of Cisco. He was a proud great-grandfather to his 6 great-grandchildren, Deric Stacy, Braxton Weaver, Hailee Stacy, Hannah Weaver, Abby Weaver and Cayden Helms. He has 21 nieces and nephews, 50 great-nieces and great-nephews and 38 great-great-nieces and nephews. Ray was a true friend to many and leaves behind a special friend and sister-in-law, Wynelle Maston. Ray will be sorely missed by a host of family and friends. Services will be held at 2 P.M. Wednesday at the River of Life Church in Eastland with Rev. Jerry Maston officiating. Burial will follow in the Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

Aubrey Nolen
EASTLAND – Aubrey Odell Nolen, 97, passed from this life into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 28, 2010, at his home in Dallas. He has fought the good fight and he is at peace. Graveside services will be Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at 2 p.m. in the Eastland Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until service time. Mr. Nolen was born to Charlie McConnell Nolen and Athie (Kizzar) Nolen, in Eastland, January 4, 1913. Mr. Nolen had six brothers and three sisters. His mother died when he was six years old and worked during the depression years near Roby, Texas, on the family farm. During World War II, Mr. Nolen served in the U.S. Army in New Guinea and the Southern Philippines. He received a sharpshooter qualification and was honorably discharged in November 1945. After the war, Mr. Nolen moved to Kermit, Texas, working with Magnolia Oil Company in the oil fields of West Texas and eventually owning his own oil field construction company. In Kermit, Mr. Nolen met his future wife, Nadine Barrow, who was in the furniture business. They married February 28, 1952 in New Mexico and started a life together that lasted 44 years until her death in May, 1996. While in Kermit, A.O. joined the First Baptist Church and he and Nadine raised one son, Chuck Nolen. A.O. was an unassuming, loving and caring father who loved telling stories of growing up on a farm. He enjoyed teaching his son to hunt and was always ready to hunt dove, walk up quail or throw a baseball. In 1986, A.O. and Nadine moved to Eastland and retired. A.O. loved visits from his granddaughters and was ready and able to tell stories at a moment’s notice. In 2006 failing health brought A.O. to Dallas, where he passed away. He is survived by his son, Charles Nolen (Chuck) and his wife, Lynn Nolen of Dallas; and two grandchildren, Caroline Elizabeth (“Callie”) and Alexandra Marie (“Lexie”).

Margaret Louise Cooper
HAMLIN- Margaret Louise “Lucy” Cooper, 88, died Saturday, March 27, 2010, surrounded by her family. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, March 29, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Hamlin with Rev. Donny Harbers officiating. Burial was in the Hamlin Memorial Cemetery, directed by Adams-Foster-Ray Funeral Home. Lucy was born May 25, 1921, in McCaulley. She was the daughter of the late David and Sally (Milsap) Berry. She graduated from McCaulley High School where she was a star basketball player. Lucy married Paul Cooper in Sweetwater on November 28, 1942. He preceded her in death in 1988. Lucy and Paul became the Hamlin Texaco Consignee in 1962 and it was restructured in 1978 to be Cooper Oil Company, Inc. Lucy was a member of the First Baptist Church in Hamlin and served as a nursery worker for many years. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star No. 460. All Lucy’s grandchildren thought they were the favorite and she loved making Special K Candy and ice cream with them. Lucy enjoyed handing out Dr. Pepper to everyone at the care home and making jewelry Christmas trees. She was preceded in death by seven brothers and sisters. Survivors are one son and daughter-in-law, Jimmy and Tricia Cooper of Hamlin; one daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Hal Porter of Cisco; four special grandchildren, Troy Cooper and wife, Stephanie of Hamlin, Kyle Cooper of Lubbock, Katy Meador and husband, Chris of Eldorado, and Kelly Porter of San Francisco, CA; seven wonderful great-grandchildren, Carlie, Cassidy, Creed, and Colson Cooper of Hamlin, Codee, Cooper, and Cole Meador of Eldorado. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 8, Hamlin, Texas 79520 or the Hamlin Food Bank, P.O. Box 25, Hamlin, Texas 79520.

John Hagaman
John L. Hagaman, 71, of Charlevoix, Michigan passed away Wednesday, March 24, 2010, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. He was born on November 24, 1938, in Ranger, Texas, the son of Leslie Hillsman and Helen Howdyshell Hagaman. He grew up in Ranger, Texas and graduated from Ranger High School in 1957. On July 23, 1960, in Ranger, Texas, he married Nelda Melton. John graduated in 1961, from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering. He continued his relationship with Texas A&M throughout his life and was awarded the 1999, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Outstanding Alumni Award. John joined The Dow Chemical Company in 1961. His 38-year career path allowed him to contribute to many aspects of the company around the world. He moved to Hong Kong in 1967 where he served in a number of Agricultural and Specialty Product positions before becoming Business Development Manager for Japan in 1970. He returned to Midland, Michigan in 1973 in Agricultural Products, but assumed an assignment a year later in Hong Kong as a Business Development Manager. In 1978, John moved to Korea where he was appointed Executive Vice President and General Manager of Korea Pacific Chemical Corporation. Two years later he became General Manager of the Korea Region, and in 1982, he was named a Vice President of Dow Pacific. John returned to Midland in early 1983 as Product Director for Commercial Products in the Global Agricultural Products Department. In 1985, he became Vice President of Dow Chemical U.S.A. and General Manager of North America Agricultural Products. In the same year he was named President and General Manager of Global Agricultural Products for The Dow Chemical Company and served in this position until October 31, 1989. At that time John was named President and Chief Executive Officer of DowElanco, a joint venture between Eli Lilly and Company and The Dow Chemical Company. In 1997, DowElanco became a wholly owned subsidiary of The Dow Chemical Company and changed its name to Dow AgroSciences LLC on January 1, 1998, during his tenure as Chief Executive. John retired as Chief Executive Officer of Dow AgroSciences in 1999. In 2003, John served as an advisor for Olympus Capital in their investment of Arysta LifeSciences. Later he served as an interim Chief Executive Officer for Arysta LifeSciences and in 2004, moved to Chairman of the Arysta Board of Directors. He retired as Chairman of the Arysta Board of Directors in 2008. John is a past President of the Global Crop Production Federation. He has served as a member of the Boards of Directors for the Indianapolis Zoological Society, Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana and the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association. In addition to several other associations, he was a member of the Agricultural Engineering Society, Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee, Norwood Township Citizens for Health and Safety, Charlevoix Lions Club and volunteered for Big Brothers of America. John was a prolific reader, enjoyed golf and boating, had an in-depth interest in market strategy and was an avid world traveler, fully absorbing local cultures. He loved people from all walks of life and had an innate ability to connect with them. He is survived by his wife, Nelda Hagaman of Charlevoix; daughter, Laura (Douglas) Hampton of Ann Arbor; son, Leslie (Jane) Hagaman of Traverse City; grandchildren, Tyler and Melanie Hampton; and sister, Betty Doebbler of Huntsville, Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Francis Markham. A private service will be held on April 2, 2010 at our home with arrangements by the Winchester Funeral Home in Charlevoix. An Open House will also be held as a celebration of John’s life on Sunday, April 18, 2010 from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm in our home in Charlevoix. Memorial contributions may be made to the Helen and Leslie Hagaman Scholarship Fund to support the future dreams of Ranger High School seniors, Ranger Independent School District, 1842 Loop 254 East, Ranger, Texas 76470; 1961 Fund for Excellence, Biological & Agricultural Engineering Department, Texas A&M University, 2117 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-2117; and Good Samaritan Family Services food pantry, P.O. Box 206, Ellsworth, MI 49729.

Ronnie Chick
EASTLAND – Ronnie Chick, 60, of Eastland, passed away Monday, March 29, 2010 in Eastland. Services are pending with Edwards Funeral Home.

Bonnie Hatton
RANGER- Bonnie Hatton, 83, passed away March, 27, 2010, in Lubbock, TX. Graveside services were held Monday, March 29, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at Bullock Cemetery with Rev. Ronny Guess officiating, directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Ranger. Bonnie was born on August 22, 1926 in Desdemona to William Henry and Eula Amazon (Wisdom) Jacobs. She started school at Alameda and graduated from Gorman High School. She married Dalton Hatton on August 12, 1948 in Rockwall. She worked for the Strawn Bank for a time, Hollywood Vassarette and Sears in Lubbock for 15 years. She was a member of the Eastside Baptist Church in Ranger and Redbud Baptist Church in Lubbock. Mr. Hatton preceded her in death on January 18, 1990. She was also preceded in death by her parents, 2 sisters, Geraldine Gentry and Billie Gosdin; and a brother, Bill “Jr.” Jacobs. Survivors include a daughter, Vicki McEachern & husband David of Lubbock; 2 sons, Rickey T. Hatton & wife Ann of Lubbock and Dickie Hatton & wife Tricia of Olden; a brother, Tommy Jacobs of Houston; 2 sisters, June Jacobs of Desdemona and Jo Redwine of Fort Worth; grandchildren, Jimmy Don Perrin, Julie McEachern Rogers & Dustin, Jeffery McEachern & Traci, David Hatton & Lauren, Luke Hatton & Laura, and Matthew Hatton; great-grandchildren, Tyler Roy Rogers, Wyatt Rogers, Kenzie and Kadence McEachern, and Shelby Hatton.

Jessie Ramsey
Jessie Ramsey, 95, passed away at a White Settlement nursing facility on Tuesday, March 23, 2010. Graveside services were held at 2:00 PM Friday, March 26, 2010 in Putnam Cemetery, Putnam, Texas under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home in Cisco. Jessie was born in Robertson County, Texas on Jan 7, 1915. She was one of 12 children born to George and Sara Sills. She lived in Texas all of her life but in different towns and cities. Her greatest love was her only son, George. Wherever George lived during his army career, Jessie traveled to visit him, including 3 trips to Europe. Jessie taught and managed Beauty Colleges in Abilene and Dallas. She was a woman of many talents that included oil painting, sewing, furniture refinishing and leather work. She had a very competitive nature that made her in great demand as a domino and forty two partner. She learned to play bridge at 80 years of age. She was a lifelong member of the American Legion Auxiliary and was once named their Woman of the Year. She is survived by her son, George Ramsey and his wife, Nettie of Fort Worth; two grandchildren, Lisa Perehoduk and husband Mark of Houston and Tim Ramsey of Fort Worth; and 6 great grand children – Lindsey Perehoduk, Daniel Perehoduk, Amy Perehoduk, Zachary Ramsey, Madison Ramsey, and Bailey Ramsey and one brother, Jack Sills of Colorado.

Dixie Blackburn
SAN ANGELO- Dixie Elizabeth Blackburn, 95, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away March 23, 2010 at Community Hospital in San Angelo, Texas. Dixie was born in Eastland County October 9, 1914 to Roy Haden Miller and Cecil Vandiver Miller. She attended school in Yellow Mound and Eastland High School. Dixie married Robert Fletcher Blackburn of Stephen County on January 29, 1933 in Cisco, Texas. Dixie and Fletch moved to Amarillo in 1937 where they had two sons, Bob and Max. They lived in Amarillo through the Great Depression. They moved to San Angelo in November, 1944. The Great World War II was raging in Europe and Asia and times were hard. While Fletch started a new business, Dixie worked hard as a housewife and mother. She served in the Parents Teachers Association at several positions including President, was a room mother and Cub Scout leader. Dixie served as chairman for the school children to get TB vaccine. She served for Concho Valley Home for Girls and was a life time member of the ’32 club, was a member of the San Angelo Country Club and was quick to tell that she was a member of the Hole in One Club. She was a lifetime member of Beta Sigma Phi. Dixie spent much of her life as owner of Blackburn Real Estate Company. She served on the San Angelo, Texas and National Real Estate Associations. Dixie was Lieutenant Governor of her district and a Director for the Texas Association of Realtors. Dixie is a Christian. She attended the Johnson Street Church of Christ. Dixie’s church life was one of the most important parts of her life. She spent her life for God. Dixie was excited to tell of her travels to England, Switzerland, Hawaii, Thailand, Hong Kong, Japan, Italy, Mexico and Canada. Dixie was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, two sisters and her husband. She is survived by two sons: Bob Blackburn and wife Ann of Lubbock and Max Blackburn and wife Mary of San Angelo. Other survivors are nine grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren. Dixie also has three living sisters and a brother. Funeral services will be held at 9:00 a.m., Saturday, March 27, 2010 at Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Tommy King officiating. Graveside services will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Gunsight Cemetery in Gunsight, Texas. The family would like to extend its appreciation to the staff of Legend Oaks, the staff at Community Hospital, her many friends and Church of Christ visitors. The family asked that any memorials be made in her name to San Angelo Rehab or West Texas Boy’s Ranch.

Matthew Brown
HUTCHINSON- Matthew Don Brown, 30, of Hutchinson, died March 23, 2010 at Promise Regional Medical Center in Hutchinson. He was born January 20, 1980 in Ranger, Texas, the son of Anthony “Tony” and Cindy Yeats Brown. He graduated from Cisco High School in the Class of 1999 and served in the National Guard. He was a foreman and lineman for Bird Electric, Eastland, Texas and resided in Hutchinson, Kansas. He was a member of the United Pentecostal Church in Okemah, Oklahoma. He was a member of God’s family and loved fishing when he could. All those that knew Matt would say “Matthew loved his family, treasured his children and had a smile that would fill a room.” He will be missed immensely but memories of this fine young man will “forever” live on. He married Lisa Wilson on December 26, 2007 in Okemah, Oklahoma. Matthew is survived by his wife, Lisa Brown of Hutchinson, Kansas; two daughters, Maize Brown, 3 years old and Dixie Rayanna Brown, 8 months, of the home; his mother, Cindy Yeats, Cisco, Texas; his father and step-mom, Anthony “Tony” and Cherry Brown, Okemah, OK; step-father, Rip Burch, and wife Moe, Jeddo, Michigan; brothers, Anthony D. “Bone” Brown, Okemah, Okla., Nick Hitt and family, Breckenridge, Texas, and Kory Burch and family, Ft. Gratiot, Michigan; step-brother, Colton Burch, Jeddo, Michigan; sisters, Natosha Hitt, Cisco, Texas, and Jessica L. Merry, Mike, Missouri; step-sister, Brandi Burch, Jeddo, Michigan; maternal grandparents, Terry “Pop” and Dixie “Ma” Haws, Cisco, Texas; paternal grandmother, Wanda “Nanny” Brown, Sherman, OK; step-grandma, Marilyn Burch, Jeddo, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his younger brother, Grant Burch in 2006; his grandfather, Uriel “Brownie” Brown; step-grandfather, Skip Burch; and maternal great-grandmother, Jessie “Granny” Hammer. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, March 29, 2010 at East Cisco Baptist Church in Cisco. Burial will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco. Visitation will be Sunday, March 28 from 4-6 p.m. at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel in Cisco. Memorial contributions may be made to the Maize & Dixie Rayanna Brown Educational Fund, sent in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, Kansas 67502. Texas arrangements with Kimbrough Funeral Home, Cisco, Texas. Friends may visit www.elliottmortuary.com to leave the family a condolence.

David Kanady
CISCO- David Andrew Kanady, 43 of Cisco passed away Thursday, March 25, 2010 at Abilene Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Saturday, March 27, 2010 at Nimrod Baptist Church officiated by Reverend Bill Armstrong, assisted by Charles Fisher. Burial will be in Nimrod Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation with family friends was 5:00-7:00 PM Friday at the funeral home. David was born in Fort Hood, Texas on October 9, 1966 to Warnie Andrew and Bonnie Allene (Shawver) Kanady. He earned a Master’s Degree in English Literature from Tarleton State University and taught Developmental English at Cisco College. David loved teaching and hunting and his Beagle, Fred. He is survived by his parents, Warnie and Bonnie Kanady of Cisco; and aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his infant brother and sister, Mark and Sherre Kanady.

Alton Coffman
RANGER – Alton Durwood Coffman, 82, passed away Sunday, March 21, 2010 at Hendrick Medical Center after having triple by-pass surgery. Memorial services will be held Tuesday, March 30, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at Eastside Baptist Church in Ranger. Burial will follow at the Bullock Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday, March 29th from 6 to 8:00 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home. Alton Coffman was born October 21, 1927 in Ranger to Robert Lee and Ester (Bailey) Coffman. He grew up on the farm north of Ranger and attended Bullock grade school. He served several months with the Merchant Marines before going into the Army Corp of Engineering. He was based in Okinawa where he operated heavy equipment to build Kedena Air Force Base. He returned to the farm north of Ranger, and took over the farm when his father retired in 1957. He was actively engaged in farming and ranching until he retired in 2009. He married Cleta Graham in May of 1954. They have two daughters, three grandchildren and one great grandson, a sister Bobbie McBay and husband Carl and one niece and one nephew. Alton served on the Board of Directors District 10 of the Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Assoc., on the Natural Resources Committee and Predatory Animal Committee for the State of Texas, as well as the Mohair Council of America. He was an active member of the Eastside Baptist Church of Ranger for more than 30 years and served as a deacon. In 1993, Alton and Cleta were presented with a Family Land Heritage Certificate recognizing the Coffman Farm of Stephens Co., founded in 1892, for a century or more of continuous agricultural production. Rick Perry, Texas Agriculture Commissioner, at the time made the presentation during the Texas Dept. of Agriculture’s 19th Family Land Heritage program held January 15, 1993 in Austin. Mr. & Mrs. Coffman were the fifth applicant from Stephens Co. to qualify for the honor.

John Curtis
John Curtis was born to Wilburn Lee and Mary Lucy Curtis on June 6, 1927 in Nimrod, Texas. He graduated from Cisco High School in 1944. He earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Texas Tech University and a PhD. in Education Administration from East Coast University in Florida. John is survived by his wife, Sybil P. Curtis; daughter, Jan Curtis; granddaughter, Michelle Seybolt and her husband, Bobby; and two great-grandsons, Parker and Peyton Seybolt. He was preceded in death by his brother, D.W. Curtis of Bryan, Texas. In 1945 John enlisted in the Navy and served aboard the USS YMS 328 (a mine sweeper) and aboard the USS Talladega. After active duty, he enlisted in the Naval Reserve for five years. John was a lifelong educator beginning as a teacher and principal in Levelland, Texas and then as Curriculum Coordinator in Brownfield, Texas. Upon moving to Grand Junction in 1966, he was the Director of Research and Curriculum Development and then was Assistant Superintendent of Mesa County Valley School District 51. He was a visionary educator and began the R-5 school for teens who needed an alternative school program. He founded Western Colorado University in 1971 which was one of the first external degree programs in the United States. He retired from WCU in 1984. John was a member of the Masonic Lodge for 55 years attaining the level of 32nd degree. A graveside service was held at 1 p.m. Monday, March 15, 2010 at the Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado. Donations may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado. He left an immense footprint on this Earth that will be impossible to fill and an even greater heartprint on those who loved him.

David Stuart
David William Stuart, 67, passed from this life Saturday, March 20, 2010 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born October 9, 1942 in Blanket, Texas to Willie Brooklyn and Elizabeth Serena Stuart. He attended Cisco Junior College, In 1963 he moved to Austin, Texas where he attended the University of Texas. In 1967 he began his automotive career at Windsor Park Shell and Garage. He later purchased North Lamar Automotive and several other small ventures. In 1987 he established Quality Engine Exchange at 8807 North Lamar, where he remained active until his illness. Throughout his life he was active in cattle ranching, car racing, hunting, and fishing. In 1984 he moved his cattle operation to Thorndale, Texas where he became involved in the community. In 1995 he became a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and an associate member of the Thorndale V.F.D. David also enjoyed having Saturday coffee with his Thorndale friends. David was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Michael Stuart and nephews Robbie Stuart and Daniel Stuart. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sally Joyce Stuart, daughter Pamela Harmon and husband Allen. He was the proud Paw Paw of grandson, Stuart Harmon, sister, Mary Hertless and husband Richard, Nelda Wheeler and husband Bill, Ruby Reep and husband Roger, brothers Robert Stuart and wife Tammy, Raymond Stuart, Ed Stuart and wife Sandra and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation was held Thursday, March 25 from 6:00 to 8:00 at Providence Funeral Home, 807 Carlos Parker Blvd., N.W, Taylor, Texas. Services were held Friday, March 26 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, highway 79, Thorndale, Texas. Donations may be made in David’s memory to, Our Forever Family, St. Paul Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 369, Thorndale TX 76577 or Thorndale Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 430, Thorndale, TX 76577. Friends are invited to share their words of comfort in an online comfort at www.providencefuneralhome.com in David Stuart’s memory.

Joyce Speegle
WICHITA FALLS- Joyce Speegle, 68, of Wichita Falls passed from this life Monday, March 22, 2010 in Wichita Falls. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Thursday, March 25, 2010 at Kimbrough Funeral Home in Cisco. Burial will follow in the Scranton Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 PM Wednesday at the Funeral Home. Joyce was born in Paragould, Arkansas Oct. 28, 1941. She married W.D. “Bill” Speegle on April 10, 1960. They lived in Ft. Stockton, TX from 1963 to 2007 where she and her husband raised three sons, W.D. “Dubby” Speegle Jr. of Wichita Falls, TX. Raymond Speegle of North Richland Hills, TX and Charlie Speegle of Corpus Christi, TX. She and her husband moved to Wichita Falls in 2007. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, W.D. “Bill” Speegle; sons W.D. ”Dubby” Jr., Raymond, Charlie; her three daughters-in-law Sheri, Ramona, and Tammy; fourteen grandchildren; her brother Nelson Collier; and sisters, Virginia Randall, Linda Duncan, Sharon Dukes and Janiene Holtzman.

Mildred Foster
CISCO- Mildred Frances Foster, 90 of Cisco passed away Saturday March 20, 2010 at Clyde Nursing Center in Clyde, Texas. Funeral services were held at 10:00 AM Monday, March 22, 2010 at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel officiated by Reverend C.P. Floyd. Burial was in Atwell Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation was from 4:00-6:00 PM Sunday at the funeral home. Mildred was born in Atwell, Texas on September 27, 1919 to Samuel Gillespie and Nancy Alice (Maddux) Jones. She worked for Boss Glove Manufacturing as a seamstress. She married Buster Emmitt Foster on June 5, 1939 in Baird, Texas; he preceded her in death on July 23, 1992. She was a member of Sabanna Quilting Club and a long time member of East Cisco Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her brother, Woodrow Jones and sister, Alice Morgan and son-in-law, Billy Fuller. Survivors include her son, Vernon Foster and wife Linda of Cisco; daughter, Frances Fuller of Clyde; sister Reta Mae Oliver of San Angelo; grandchildren, Cynthia Ann DeHoyos and husband Mark of Hawley, Craig Allan Foster and wife Lori of Dublin, Dana Lynn Scott of Waxahachie, LaDonna Michelle Holland and husband Jeff of Clyde, Billy Doyle Fuller and wife Tracy of Mesquite; great grandchildren, Joshua and wife Robin, Shawnae and husband Tim, Anthony, Lauren, Jeffrey, Justin, Jese, Katy, Shannon and Max; a great great grandson, Trevor; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Serving as pallbearers are Craig Allan Foster, Mark DeHoyos, Joshua Davis, Jeff Holland, Jeffrey Holland and Justin Holland; honorary pallbearers will be Billy Doyle Fuller, Jese Holland and Anthony DeHoyos.

Earl Harris
OLDEN –Earl W. Harris, 88, passed away Friday, March 19, 2010 in Eastland. Graveside services were held Tuesday, March 23, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at Merriman Cemetery in Ranger. Visitation was from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 23 at Edwards Funeral Home. Mr. Harris was born November 27, 1921 in Mena, AK to Abijah and Gertrude (Askew) Harris. He was a member of the U.S. Army and fought in WWII. While in the service he married Orvilee (Plunkett) Harris on February 11, 1944 in DeQueens, AK. They moved to Odessa in 1947, while living there he worked at Halliburton, Sid Richardson for 21 years and Ref-Chem for 11 years before retiring to Olden. Mr. Harris loved to fish, hunt, garden and most of all he was a people person. He was a loving and caring man. Mr. Harris was also a member of the VFW in Odessa. He was preceded in death by his wife, Orvilee Harris, daughter, Linda Kay Harris, two brothers, Edward and Ernest Harris and one sister, Ruby Lee Stout. He is survived by two daughters, Deborah Long and husband Jeff of Olden and Gail Overton of Olden, one granddaughter, Christi Lee Williams of Denton, TX.

Roland 'Sarge' Goforth
ROBERT LEE- Roland C. “Sarge” Goforth, 78, of Robert Lee died Friday, March 19, 2010 at his residence. Visitation was held Monday, March 22 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Johnson’s Funeral Home. Services will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday, March 23, 2010 in Johnson’s Funeral Home Chapel with John Brewer officiating. Burial, with military honors, followed in Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens. Sarge was born September 20, 1931 in Stephens County, Texas to H.R. “Coon” and Rosie J. (Boney) Goforth. He served in the US Army during the Korean War as a paratrooper and was discharged as a Sergeant. Sarge was in the electrical trade in Odessa and moved to San Angelo in 1961. He worked as chief engineer at Shannon Medical Center from 1961 to 1976. After leaving Shannon Hospital , he went back into the Electrical profession and later opened Goforth Electric. Sarge was married to Barbara Ann Roberson on October 13, 1953 in Woodson , TX . She preceded him in death on March 3, 1999. Survivors include four children Donny Goforth and wife Danine of Arlington, Debbie Goforth, Dorinda Boswell and husband David and Damon Goforth all of San Angelo; seven grandchildren Kristina Knox and husband Robbi, Alia Brewer and husband John, Jordan and Hayden Boswell, Destiny Ann Goforth, Marissa and Cody Baker; great grandson Luke Brewer; and daughters-in-law Phyllis Goforth; two brothers David (Dub) Goforth and wife Donna of Robert Lee and Bobby Goforth and wife Dorothy of Waco; two sisters Billy Lou Harper and husband Tommy of Waco and Virgie Leaker and husband Frank of Ennis and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers were Lee Appleberry, Dale Dye, Lawrence Leonard, Shawn Leonard, Max Parker and Johnny Reyes. The family wishes to express a special thanks to Dr. Chris Barnett and his staff, Dr. Robert Alexander, Dr. Chris Vanderzant, Shannon Medical Center Rehab. Unit, Texas Oxycare, Medway Home Health, Hospice of San Angelo , Tracy Romatowski and Grace Ditmore.

Weldon Cunningham
Weldon Cunningham, age 75, of Ranger, Texas passed away in Stephens Memorial Hospital on March 20, 2010 after a long, hard, courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Weldon was born on July 31, 1934 in Ranger, Texas to Dell and Ola Cunningham who preceded him in death. Weldon attended public school in Ranger and also attended Ranger Junior College. Anyone who knew Weldon knew that football was his first love…..in particular, Ranger Bulldog football. He was honored to have played for O.C. “Stubby” Warden during the years of 1948-1950. He received “All-District” honors in 1950. Weldon was a past member and president of Southwest Football Officials Association (SFOA). Weldon retired from Lone Star Gas Company with 38 years of service in 1994. He later began working at Tractor Supply Company in Eastland and continued to work until his cancer forced him into retirement in 2008. Weldon is survived by his wife of 46 years, Garlan Cunningham; his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Cher Cunningham of Breckenridge; his daughter and son-in-law, Mindy and Terry Whitaker of Eastland; granddaughters, Taryn Cunningham of Breckenridge, Ryleigh Whitaker of Eastland, and soon-to-be granddaughter, Keeli Blaize “Pebbles” Whitaker of Eastland. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. A memorial service will be held at Leon River Cowboy Church of Olden on Thursday, March 25, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. with the Reverends Jim Wright, Rex Boggs, and Paul Howie presiding. Following cremation, Weldon will be returning to the land that he lived on and loved for 70 years. Friends and family will be received at the church following the memorial service.

Dorothy Capers
EASTLAND – Dorothy Jackson Capers went to be with the Lord on March 10, 2010 in Eastland, Tx. Graveside services were held in the Eastland City Cemetery directed by Edwards Funeral Home. Dorothy was born on December 17, 1921 in Carbon to J.S. and Mary (Bettis) Jackson. She married Elzie J. Capers on February 24, 1939 in Carbon. He preceded her in death in August of 1979. She worked as a seamstress for MFG Co. Dorothy was a member of the Bethel Baptist Church. Dorothy was a loving and caring person who loved people. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Charles Covey
MINERAL WELLS- Charles William Covey, 56 of Mineral Wells, died Saturday March 13, 2010, at his home. He fought a bout with cancer for 16 months and finally lost the battle. He attended Ranger Jr./Sr. High School. Mr. Covey is survived by his mother, Lois Covey; three brothers, Bob Covey, Ricky Covey, and Randall Covey; and one sister, Ann Eaton; two nephews, Christopher Eaton and James Chambliss; one niece, Kelly Power; two grandnephews, Hunter and Blake. Date for his memorial has not yet been set, but his ashes will be inturned at Meriman Cemetery in Ranger.

David Stuart
David William Stuart, 67, passed from this life Saturday, March 20, 2010 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born October 9, 1942 in Blanket, Texas to Willie Brooklyn and Elizabeth Serena Stuart. He attended Cisco Junior College, In 1963 he moved to Austin, Texas where he attended the University of Texas. In 1967 he began his automotive career at Windsor Park Shell and Garage. He later purchased North Lamar Automotive and several other small ventures. In 1987 he established Quality Engine Exchange at 8807 North Lamar, where he remained active until his illness. Throughout his life he was active in cattle ranching, car racing, hunting, and fishing. In 1984 he moved his cattle operation to Thorndale, Texas where he became involved in the community. In 1995 he became a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and an auxiliary member of the Thorndale V.F.D. David also enjoyed having Saturday coffee with his Thorndale friends. David was preceded in death by his parents, one brother Michael Stuart and nephews Robbie Stuart and Daniel Stuart. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Sally Joyce Stuart, daughter Pamela Harmon and husband Allen. He was the proud Paw Paw of grandson, Stuart Harmon, sister, Mary Hertless and husband Richard, Nelda Wheeler and husband Bill, Ruby Reep and husband Roger, brothers Robert Stuart and wife Tammy, Raymond Stuart and wife Sandra and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Thursday, March 25 from 6:00 to 8:00 at Providence Funeral Home, 807 Carlos Parker Blvd., N.W, Taylor, Texas. Services will be held Friday, March 26 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, highway 79, Thorndale, Texas. Donations may be made in David’s memory to, Our Forever Family, St. Paul Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 369, Thorndale TX 76577 or Thorndale Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 430, Thorndale, TX 76577. Friends are invited to share their words of comfort in an online comfort at www.providencefuneralhome.com in David Stuart’s memory.

Mildred Hill
I’m in heaven, dear ones, and oh so happy! So many here I know; John Harley, my daddy, my mother, Linnie Lou Upton Harley, and five of my siblings. My husband, Howard and our godson, Brad, were waiting telling me to hurry ‘cause the fish are really biting. My 96 plus years there with you were very blessed. God had a plan for me and led me from my birth on September 25, 1913 in Cotter, Arkansas, to a manager’s position in retail sales in Abilene, Texas where He had my future husband, Howard B. Hill, an Abilene fireman, waiting. In later years He led us to Lake Leon in Eastland County, Texas for our retirement years, where I lived until passing in my home on Monday, March 15, 2010. I will miss you, family and friends, but I know God still has work for you there. So, John and Lillian Harley, my brother, his wife and their children, Larry and Pam Harley, Mary Ann and Steven Gabay and James Harley; my nieces, Norma Jean Snyder and Sylvia, and my nephew, Eugene; Howard’s family, Atwood and Billie Sheffield and their children, Belinda and Tom Hailey, J.D. and Gina Sheffield, Mildred and Bob Kelley, Jerry Lynn and Yang Cha Hill, and their children, Don and Stephanie Hill, Howard and Kellie Hill and Janice Lisa Hill; all of my great-nieces and nephews; and Pat Walker, my caregiver and friend, when your work is all completed, God will call you home. What joy I’ll have to see you come. My life was celebrated on Friday, March 19th, 2010 at 2 p.m. at The Hamil Family Funeral Home in Abilene, Texas, officiated by Bro. H. B. Terry. Interment in Tuscola Cemetery followed. There was a family visitation from 1 to 2 p.m. on that same day prior the service. I’m at peace forever, safely in heaven at last. Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity. Online condolences may be posted at HYPERLINK “http://www.HamilFamilyFuneralHome.com”www.Hamil

FamilyFuneralHome.com.

James Qualls
James Jack Qualls, 68, of Pipe Creek, passed away on March 12, 2010.
He was born to Charles J Qualls and Mary Loraine Siddall Qualls in Cisco, TX.
He had a long career with USAA and graduated from North Texas University with a Bachelor degree. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Gwendolyn Brandt Qualls of Pipe Creek, TX; son, Andrew and wife, Jessica Qualls of San Antonio; honorary daughter, Katherine Eckert of San Antonio; 2 brothers, F. Ronald Qualls and wife, Barbara; and C. Robert Qualls and wife, Pat; sister, Nancy Haynes and husband, Jesse; numerous nieces and nephews. A private burial took place at Pipe Creek Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, March 28, 2010 at Silver Sage Senior Center, 2:00 PM. Please come share your favorite memories of Jack. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Helping Hand at P.O. Box 1092, Bandera, TX 78003
and/or Meals on Wheels at P.O. Box 1416, Bandera, TX 78003. Arrangements are entrusted to GRIMES FUNERAL CHAPELS of Bandera. You are invited to send your condolences to the family by selecting the “Send Condolences” link at www.grimesfuneralchapels.com Arrangements are entrusted to GRIMES FUNERAL CHAPELS of Bandera.

Ronald 'Ronnie' Pierce
EASTLAND - Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Pierce, age 57, of Eastland, passed away Monday, March 15, 2010 in Abilene. Graveside services were held on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 1:00 pm at Eastland Cemetery under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home in Eastland. Ronald Earnest Pierce was born on August 31, 1952 in Edinburg, Texas to Guy Joseph and Anita (Rust) Pierce. He worked in the oilfield and was a carpenter. Ronnie loved to fish, swim, ski and all outdoor activities. His grandfather on his mother’s side brought the Seventh Day Adventist Church to Texas and his great-great-grandfather on his father’s side was the head chief of the Nesworth Tribe. He is survived by his son, Dylan Pierce; his brothers, Glen and Jose Pierce, and David, Wayne and Hoyt Combs; his sisters, Helen Cantrell, Betty Frantz and Faye; his granddaughter, Mackenzie Pierce; his dear trusted friend, Janet Girtz; and several nieces and nephews.

Payton "Pat" Price
Funeral service for Payton “Pat” Price, 90, Lawton, was held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 17, 2010 in the Northwest Church of Christ. Mrs. Price died Saturday, March 13, 2010 in Lawton. Burial will be in Sunset Memorial Gardens under the direction of the Becker Funeral Home. Mrs. Price was born March 12, 1920 in Cisco, Texas, to Earl Earnest and Emily Ruth (Marchman) Parmer. She grew up in Cisco and was the Salutatorian of her high school graduating class. She married William H. Price on April 10, 1939 in Cisco. He preceded her in death on August 23, 2002. Mrs. Price was the wife of a full time gospel minister and as a result lived in a number of different places. She lived in California from 1945 until 1965 and while there she worked several years as a buyer of fashion merchandise for City of Paris, one of San Francisco’s most important department stores. She moved to Lawton in November of 1996. She was a member of the Church of Christ. Mrs. Price is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Ron D. and Cassandra Price, Lawton; a granddaughter and her husband, Alicia and Rodney C. Davis, Knoxville, Tennessee; a grandson and his wife, Shane and Denée Price, Dallas, Texas; a sister, Betty Nix, Cisco, Texas; a niece and her husband, Sandra and Audie Parker; and a nephew, Randy Nix. Her sister, Winifred Hinkley, preceded her in death. Memorial contributions may be made to the Tipton Children’s Home, P.O. Box 370 , Tipton OK 73570. An online guest book and sympathy cards are available at www.beckerfuneral.com

Mary Dukes
Mary Ulala Wood Dukes was born September 28, 1920, in Gorman, Eastland County,Texas, to Green Wilder and Olivia Holleyman Wood. Ulala passed away on March 12, 2010, at her home in Houston, Texas. Services will be on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 11:00 AM at Nowlin-Anders Funeral Home in Deleon, Comanche County, Texas. She will be laid to rest at Old Nineveh Cemetery alongside her husband of sixty-six years, William Denman Dukes, Sr. W.D. preceded her in death on January 6, 2007. Mary Ulala grew up in the New Hope Community, north of Gorman and graduated from nearby Carbon High School, Class of 1937. Denman and Ulala were wed on September 9, 1940, in Jal, New Mexico, and raised their family in the oilfield towns of Levelland, McCamey and Eldorado, Texas during the 1940’s, interspersed with W.D.’s time in the Pacific for World War II. The family moved to Eastland County in 1950, and on to Perryton, Texas in the winter of 1962. Ulala often referred to the farm years at Carbon-Eastland County, as her happiest, in spite of the severe drought, and she remembered those years with beautiful poetry of the young family’s farm life. Mary Ulala blossomed and taught grade school girls’ Sunday School class in each of her homestead churches throughout her life, spending thirty years at First Baptist Church, Perryton. In 1993, Denman and Ulala retired to Hideaway Lake near Tyler and enjoyed nature there until moving to Houston in December 2005. Mary Ulala is survived by her children, son W.D., Jr (Denny), of Abilene, Texas, son Jerry, of Evergreen, Colorado, son Steve, of Houston, and daughter Susan, of Seagraves, Texas. Also surviving are twelve grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren. Mary Ulala was the last surviving sibling of her loving family of five sisters and three brothers. She was preceded in death by sisters Vera, Velma, Gladys and Ruby Lee and brothers Ernest, Lawrence and G.W., Jr. She is survived by three sisters-in-law: Hazel Comfort Dukes Roberts, of Montgomery, AL, and Jill Dukes and Jean Dukes, both of Comanche, Texas. Condolences to the family can be sent to 2222 Dunraven Lane, Houston, TX 77019.

Voy Wilks
CISCO- Voy Wilks, 89, passed from this life Sunday, March 14, 2010, at Abilene, Texas. A graveside service was conducted by Elder James King at 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 15, 2010, at the Romney Cemetery, under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. A celebration of Voy’s life for family and friends was conducted Wednesday, 3:00 p. m., at the Assembly of Yahweh (7th day), at Romney by Elder James King and Pastor John Robinson. Voy was born to William Wesley Whiteside Wilks and Erie Catharine Wilks on December 17, 1920, near Hedley in Donley County, Texas. The Wilkses moved to Burnet County when Voy was six, and he graduated from Lake Victor in 1938 before the family moved to Dublin in Erath County. Initially deferred because he was a farmer, Voy served in the Philippines during World War II as a medic in the Army Air Corp. He married Myrtle Irene Fenter of Comanche County June 3, 1945, and after his return from the Philippines, they operated a laundry in Carbon. In 1952 Voy began working for Boss Gloves in Cisco, where the couple bought a farm the next year. Voy became a brick mason about 1960; his work is still evident in buildings throughout Texas and beyond. He retired from that trade in the early eighties. Voy was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-eight years, Myrtle; several grandchildren; and four of his six siblings. He is survived by his wife of five years, Susie Davis Slusher Wilks; a sister, Myrl McLean of Houston and a brother, Kirby Wilks of Buda, Texas; his children: Beth Maynard of Rising Star; Ruth York and husband Joey of Cisco; Farris Wilks and wife Jo Ann (Maston) of Cisco; Tovayah Nelms and husband Kerry of Bruceville; and Dan Wilks and wife Staci (Jones) of Cisco. Voy and Myrtle had forty-two grandchildren, forty-six great grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren. Voy was a member of the Assembly of Yahweh (7th day) south of Cisco, which he led for many years. His legacy was quiet strength born of faithfulness, integrity, gentleness and love. He will be missed. Memorials may be made to the Voy Wilks Scholarship Fund, c/o Cisco High School.

Elvert "Cricket" Maddox
STRAWN- Elvert “Cricket” Maddox was born June 15, 1924 near Ranger, Texas passed away March 12, 2010 in Athens, Texas. Retired from Lone Star Gas after 36 years. Veteran of World War II with the U.S. Army. Preceded in death by parents Lula Mae and Gid Maddox and granddaughter Angie Bence. Survived by wife of 35 years Melba Maddox of Strawn, TX; daughter Ann Deweese of Athens; son David Maddox and wife Eliz of Athens; stepdaughter Nan Dodson and husband Alvy of Mansfield; stepson Gary Grable and wife Marilyn of Quinlan. Also, 8 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Visitation was Monday, March 15, 2010 from 6-8p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger. Graveside services were held Tuesday, March 16 at 2:00 p.m. at Woodlawn Park Cemetery in Mineral Wells.

Rebecca Holding
CISCO- Rebecca Sue Holding, 60 of Cisco passed away Monday, March 15, 2010 at Homestead Nursing Center. Graveside services will be 10:00 AM Thursday , March 18, 2010 at Oakwood Cemetery, officiated by Reverend Scott Rasco and under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation with family and friends was Wednesday 5:00-7:00 PM at the funeral home. Rebecca Sue was born in Lipan, Texas on December 28, 1949 to James Henry and Cornelia Irene (McCauley) Tuggle. She worked as a secretary and was a member of Mountain Top Church. She married Frances Dean Holding on November 1970 in Cleburne, Texas, he preceded her in death on November 1981. She is survived by a daughter, Cathy Beaver of Stephenville, Texas; son, Dean Paul Holding and wife Maysa of Arlington, Texas; her mother, Cornelia Irene Tuggle of Cisco, Texas; sisters, Glenda Meyer and husband, C.A. of La Vernia, Texas, Jane Trisk and husband Raymond and Donna Fields and husband Kenneth all of Cisco, Texas; brother, Kenneth Tuggle and wife Lynda of Stephenville, Texas; grandchildren, Damein Thetford, Samantha Beaver, Sidney Beaver, Naz Holding, Noruz Holding.

Mildred "Millie" Moon
EASTLAND- Mildred “Millie” Moon, age 88, of Ranger, went to be with her Lord on Saturday, March 13, 2010 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Funeral services were held at 10:30 am, Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland. Interment followed at Smith Cemetery in Purmela, TX. Millie was born to Ira and Ida Featherston Moore September 10, 1921 in Turnersville, Coryell County, TX. She had many accomplishments in her life. She served in the Marine Corp women’s reserve in 1944. Millie loved her job as a teletype operator for Western Union in San Francisco, California and First National Bank in Dallas, Texas. She was also employed by Transcon Freight Lines and Fruehauf Trailer Company in Pico Rivera, California. In her later years, Millie worked for Girling Home Health where she met and made many friends. Millie loved to teach Sunday school and study the Bible. She was an avid pet lover, gardener and enjoyed traveling. Survivors include nieces, Joan Pilkington of Mineral Wells, TX, and Belinda Moore and Barbara Coats of Gatesville, TX; sister-in-law, Doris Moore of Gatesville, TX; and great-nieces and nephews and cousins. Millie was preceded in death by her parents, Ira and Ida Moore; brother, R.Q. Moore; and husband, Herman Moon.

Diana Smith
CISCO- Diana Jean Smith, 59 of Cisco passed away at her home March 11, 2010. She was born March 10, 1951 and adopted by Ed and Lillian Bradshaw and raised in Cisco. She graduated Cisco High School in 1969, she then attended Cisco Jr. College before going to Tarelton State University to complete her teaching degree. She taught elementary school in Moran for 1 yr. and then at Cisco. She married Bruce H. Smith on June 1, 1979. She was a great friend and avid quilter. After surviving cancer in 2000, she spent the last 9 years making prayer quilts for people who were fighting cancer. She has quilted over 100 prayer quilts since 2001 most of them pieced and quilted by hand. She is survived by her husband Bruce Smith of Cisco; three children, daughter Christy and husband Rolan Bonnet of Cisco; son Charles “Tony” and wife Karen Smith of Lubbock, son Timothy and wife Shanna Smith of Lubbock; one grandson Robert Hamilton of Cisco; one sister Lisa and husband Robert Miller of Friendship; TX and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Ed and Lillian Bradshaw. Services will be Saturday at 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church Cisco March 12, 2010. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery Cisco under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation was from 5:00-7:00 PM Friday March 12, 2010 at Kimbrough Funeral Home.

Jane Anne Thompson
CISCO - Jane Anne Thompson, 62, passed away Friday, March 5, 2010, in Eastland. A graveside service was Saturday, March 6, 2010 at 1:00 PM in the Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home.
Jane Anne was born December 2, 1947, to John and Opal Harris in the old E. L. Graham Hospital in Cisco. She worked many years as a beautician and attended the Mountain Top Church. She married Sonny Thompson. He preceded her in death three years ago. Survivors include daughters: Patricia Marker of Lewisville, Rebecca Hamby of Eastland and Kimberly Hamby of Dallas; grandchildren: Jessica Whurch, Cameron Hamby, Bobby Marker, Sonya Marker and Destiny Hamby Escovedo. She will be missed by many others who knew her.

Helen McCollum
MORAN - Helen H. McCollum, age 86, died Thursday, March 11, 2010 at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 13, 2010 at the Moran Cemetery with the Rev. Steve Ulrey officiating under the direction of the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home in Cisco. Helen was the youngest child of Walter Wesley and Olah Miller Knight. She was born July 7, 1923 in Moran, Texas. She married Clarence Odell on August 8, 1940. After his death in 1953, she lived in Cisco and worked at the Norvell and Miller Grocery. In 1956, she married Clovis McCollum and moved to the McCollum Farm near Moran, continuing to live there until her death. She retired in 1996 from Thrift Mart/Brookshire Grocery after working more than thirty years. She was preceded in death by her husbands; her brothers, Clarence, Marvin, and Doyle; and sisters, Jewel and Alpha; and a son, Ross Odell. Mrs. McCollum is survived by sons, Wes and wife LeMoyne Odell of Abilene and Brad McCollum of Moran; two granddaughters, Ketrin McKeegan of Wylie and Lauren Odell of Dallas; a great-granddaughter, Bria McKeegan. Other survivors include her sister-in-law, Maurine McCollum, Moran; niece, Newlene Hunt, Hurst; and nephew, Ronald Odell, Porter. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be sent to Ben Richey Boys Ranch, Abilene, Texas.

C. L. Hodgkins
Strawn –C.L. (Copper) Hodgkins, 95 of Strawn passed away on Thursday, March 11, 2010. Services are pending with Edwards Funeral Home, Strawn, Texas.

Bertha Donham
CISCO- Bertha Donham 97, of Cisco passed away Friday, March 5, 2010 in Eastland Memorial Hospital. Funeral services were held at 2:30 PM Sunday, March 7, 2010 at East Cisco Baptist Church, officiated by Reverend C.P. Floyd. Burial followed in Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation with family and friends will be Saturday 5:00-7:00 at the funeral home. Mrs. Donham was born in Eastland County, Texas on December 22, 1912 to James Monroe and Carolina Eugenia (Yeager) Pence. She married William T. Donham in Baird on December 30, 1933; she was a long time member of East Cisco Baptist Church. She is survived by her children, Bertie Mae Jackson and husband Drew Dan and W.T. Donham and wife Loretta all of Cisco, James Donham and wife Mary of Gorman, Jean Ziehr and husband Roland of Cisco and Judy Atkinson and husband Jimmy of Clyde; grandchildren, William Donham, Darlene Hightower, Betty Evatt, Tommy Donham, Alan Jackson, Cindy Rogers, Steve Jackson, Pam Wintermute, Chris Clayton, Tim Atkinson, Amy Neuman, Jeff Ziehr, Scott Ziehr and Rob Ziehr; also, 21 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren. She was preceded in death, by her parents, husband, a son Billy Ray Donham and great granddaughter, Rachel Evatt. Those serving as pallbearers are William Donham, Tommy Donham, Alan Jackson, Steve Jackson, Tim Atkinson, Jeff Ziehr, Scott Ziehr, and Rob Ziehr.

David Tinajero
RANGER – Our David, who loved life, his family and friends to the fullest, left to be with our Lord on February 27, 2010. Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM, Monday, March 8, 2010 at Merriman Baptist Church in Ranger under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. Interment followed at Merriman Cemetery. Visitation was held before the service at the Church from 12:00 – 2:00. Reverend Jimmy Lively and Josh Jonker conducted the services. David Anthony Tinajero was born on June 2, 1988 in Eastland, Texas. He attended Ranger High School. David always had a smile on his face and loved all life had to offer. Remember him for who he was, for the friendship he gave, for the smiles he put on your faces and for the never ending love he freely gave to so many of us. David is survived by many friends and family; his mother, Mrs. Gloria Clark; his father, Frumencio (Tino) Tinajero; Godparents, Sixto and Juanita Ponce; his wife, Heather Tinajero; brothers, Victor Tinajero and Randy Jones, Jr.; sister, Sara Muse Germany; step-father, Kenneth Clark; maternal grandmother, Dona Jackson; paternal grandparents, Jose Asencion Tinajero and Maria Esperanza Ballesteros; uncles, Jerry Heath, Greg Heath, Victor Heath, Michael Heath, Joey Barrera, Martin Tinajero, Jose Luis Tinajero, Javier Tinajero and Roque Tinajero; aunts, Kayla Heath, Melinda Hernandez, Rebecca Barrera, Maria Del Refujio Tinajero and Nancy Hosino-Tinajero. David was preceded by his maternal grandfather Eddie Heath.

Lee Starr
CISCO - Lee W. Starr, age 88, of Cisco, passed from this life peacefully with his family by his side on Saturday, March 6, 2010 at Abilene Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at 3:00 pm at First Baptist Church in Cisco officiated by Rev. Benny Hagan. Interment will follow at Scranton Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday, March 9th from 5:00 – 8:00 pm at the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home. Mr. Starr was born in the Dan Horn Community on May 14, 1921 to William Burr and Elizabeth Jeffryes Starr. He married Delores Smith on July 27, 1964 in Eastland, Texas. He was a farmer/rancher and a lifetime member of the Cisco Athletic Booster Club, a member of the Texas Farmers’ Union and an avid supporter of Cisco High School and Cisco College athletics. He was known by his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren as “G-Daddy” and is survived by his wife Delores of Cisco; sons, Keith Starr and wife Barbara of Cairo, Egypt, James Smith of Brenham, Texas, Tommy Smith and wife Joyce of Cisco and Bill Starr of Burkburnett, Texas; one daughter, Vonda Baird and husband Joe of Cisco; and sixteen grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, eight brothers and one sister.

Daryl Phelps
CARBON- Daryl Phelps, 71, of Carbon passed away March 3, 2010. Services were held at the Majestic Theater Sunday, March 7, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. with Randy Beggs officiating. Burial was in the Eastland Cemetery. Daryl was born Feb. 14, 1939 in Gorman, TX to Jasper and Lorena Phelps. Daryl was a graduate of Eastland High School and a long time resident of Carbon, TX. He is survived by son, Rodney Phelps, of Colleyville, Tx; daughter, Darla Whitenton and husband Thomas Whitenton of N. Richland Hills, Tx.; step son, Brad Webb of Eastland; sister Thelda Miller and husband Claud Miller of Alamogordo, New Mexico; brother Dr. Jay A. Phelps and wife Katrina of Soniota, Arizona; grandsons Daryl Graham and wife Miranda Graham of Ranger and Zach Bowles of Eastland; granddaughters Bailye and Lexie Whitenton of N. Richland Hills; great-granddaughter Jessa Graham of Ranger and numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews. Daryl is preceded in death by a daughter, Sherri Bowles; parents, Jasper and Lorena Phelps; and brother, Ron Phelps.

Ricky Herrera
EASTLAND –Funeral services for Ricky Herrera, 46, of Eastland was held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 8, 2010 at the Leon River Cowboy Church. Pastor Paul Howie, assisted by Pastor Shawn Brewer and Pastor John Ross, officiated. Visitation was Sunday from 4-6 p.m. Burial was at Alameda Cemetery. Pallbearers were Jeremy Smith, Mason Smith, Brody Harrington, Malcom Williamson, Rylan Harrison, Brent Kirkland, Alan Little, Robert Henson, Billy Knight and Michael Brooks. Services under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Ricky Herrera took his final ride, March 4, 2010 at his residence, the XO Rancho. He was born on December 31, 1963 in Sweetwater, Texas to Richard Q. Herrera and Benilde (Bea) Herrera. He married Christy Diane on September 3, 1988 in Ranger, Texas. They proudly welcomed their first son, Colton, in 1992 and their second son, Carson, in 2002. Ricky was an active member of the Leon River Cowboy Church. His passions included his family, roping, painting and supporting the youth of Eastland. He owned and operated Herrera Sign Co. and left his mark in the community through his artwork. Ricky’s zest for life and God-given talent will forever be remembered by all who knew and loved him. Ricky is survived by his wife and soul mate, Christy; his boys, Colton and Carson, son by heart, Cameron Sharp; loving Mama Bea Herrera of Eastland; three sisters, Emma Price and her husband, Milton of Hurst, Rebecca Batteas and her husband, Mike of Eastland and Ilda Martinez of Stephenville; his mother-in-law and best friend, “Nana” Cheryl Wilson of Red Oak; his nieces and nephews Jessica, Jennifer and her husband, Brent, Jayce, Jamie, Emily, Freddie Michael, Aaron, Aaron Gonzales, Alexa, Abbie and Gage; his senorita Benita Soto and his right arm Robin Beaver. He is also survived by the sparkles in his eyes, his great niece Jaylee White and great nephews, Kase Kirkland and Hunter Boswell. Survivors as well include his sidekick and dog, Willard and loyal horse Palo. Preceding him in death was his father, Richard Q. Herrera. A fund has been set up at First Financial Bank of Eastland for the family of Ricky Herrera.

Mozelle Wende
ABILENE- Mozelle Davis Wende, 92, of Abilene formerly of Cisco, died Sunday, March 7, 2010 in Abilene. Graveside services will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, March 9, 2010 in West End Cemetery in Stephenville. Services under direction of Stephenville Funeral Home. Mozelle was born August 14, 1917 in Morgan Mill, Texas to the late David Oscar and Minner Lee Cole Davis. She married Cecil Olen Watson in 1941 in Marfa, while he was a test pilot, and she was a parachute packer. After his death in 1951, she married Willie Henry (Bill) Wende in 1955 where they farmed south of Cisco. He also preceded her in death in 1992. Mozelle graduated from Morgan Mill High School, attended Tarleton State University in Stephenville, and received her LVN in nursing from Cisco Jr. College in Cisco. She was a member of the Lutheran Church in Cisco. Mozelle worked in the Eastland County Clerks office, and as a LVN worked in several nursing homes and hospitals in Cisco, Eastland, Baird, and Abilene. She was a member of the Eastern Star in Stephenville for over 70 years. She is survived by her son, David Gary and wife Joy Hathorn Watson of Abilene; two granddaughters, Martha Fair Watson and husband Colby Stone of Oklahoma City, OK and Dr. Anne Alyse Watson of Tahlequah, OK; two great grandchildren, Alexander Thomas Stone and Avery Anne Stone of Oklahoma City, OK; and several nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by six sisters, Pauline Bobo, Velma Davis, Thelma Cason, Dot Tunnel, Alice Strother, and Cleo Bently, and by a brother W. C. Davis. Online condolences may be made at www.stephenvillefh.com.

Robert Barnett
GORMAN- Robert Arvel Barnett, age 88 of Gorman, passed away Monday, March 8, 2010 at the Mulberry Manor Nursing Home in Stephenville. Graveside services will be 3:30 P. M. on Thursday , March 11, 2010 at the Oaklawn Cemetery with Bro. Barry Schahn officiating. Visitation will be from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P. M. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Mr. Barnett was born on September 21, 1921 in Eastland County to Joseph Madison Barnett and Millie Mae Murray Barnett. He married Bobbie Joe Sanders on November 25, 1939 in Carbon, Texas. She preceded him in death in January 2004. He was a retired farmer and rancher and had lived all of his life in the Gorman area. He was a member of the First Baptist Church. Survivors include a son, Larry Barnett and wife, Colene of Wylie; daughter, Kay Lynn Lasater and husband, Emmett of Eastland; two sisters, Connie Cate and Dortha Cate both of Eastland; four grandchildren, Pam Wheat and husband, David of Possum Kingdon Lake, Treva Keith and husband, Brad of Allen, Lori Akers and husband Miley of Charlotte, N.C. and Whitney Crews and husband Jeff of Lindale; five great grandchildren, Jake Keith, Miley and Kaylee Akers, Kelsey and Makenna Crews; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister, Donnie Mathison and two brothers, Billy Joe Barnett and Earl Gene Barnett.

Wayne Arnold
Wayne J. Arnold, 82, passed away on Monday, March 1, 2010, in the Hospice Inpatient Unit at Midland Memorial Hospital after a long, courageous, and amazing battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family and now has his eyes full of Heaven. Visitation was held Wednesday, March 3, 2010, from 5:00 P.M. – 7:30 P.M. at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home in Midland. Graveside services were held on Thursday, March 4, 2010, at 2:00 P.M. at the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco, Texas, with Scott Sheppard of Fairmont Park Church of Christ officiating. Wayne was born on April 3, 1927, in Carbon, Texas to George and Bettie Lee Arnold. He grew up in Cisco, Texas, attending school there until he joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 17. He served in the South Pacific Theater during World War II aboard the USS Mob Jack. Upon completion of his service to his country, Wayne worked various jobs in West Texas, in the oil field as well as with Railway Express. While working as a Railway Express agent in Monahans, he enjoyed cherry limeades at the drugstore where a beautiful, young lady named Marie Taylor worked. They were married on June 1, 1951 and through the years were blessed with 4 children and a lifetime of wonderful memories. After moving to Midland in 1952, Wayne worked for the U.S. Postal Service until his retirement in 1983. He also owned Arnold’s Pool Service from 1954 until he retired in 1995. Wayne was a long-time member of Fort Worth & Jax Church of Christ and a charter member of Fairmont Park Church of Christ. He loved his church family and enjoyed the many friendships he cultivated over the years. He was a gentle giant of a man with a big heart, a firm handshake and a twinkle in his eye. He enjoyed handing out nicknames, coining new phrases and making his family and friends laugh. He also loved gardening, camping, fishing, hunting rocks and collecting coins and stamps.
Wayne was the ultimate gentleman and a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend. His family always came first, and he was never too busy to attend his children’s and grandchildren’s many school and sports activities. He enjoyed being outdoors with his grandchildren, picking up pecans in the orchard, working in the garden and taking golf cart rides. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers and 2 sisters. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Marie Arnold of Midland; a daughter Susan Jacobsma and her husband, Marc of Midland; 3 sons, Darrell Arnold and his wife Vicki of Sugarland, George Arnold and his wife, Sandi of Abilene, Bruce Arnold and his wife, Stephanie of Midland; his grandchildren, Kasey, Chadd, Katie, Julie, Patrick, Claire, Abbie and Luke; 2 great grandchildren; a sister, Betty June Snodgrass of Lubbock; many nieces and nephews as well as extended family. The family would like to express their deepest thanks to Dr. Watkins, Dr. Miller and the wonderful nurses in the Hospice Unit for their kind, compassionate care during Wayne’s illness. Honorary pallbearers are his grandsons and nephews. The family suggests that memorials be made to Hospice of Midland PO Box 2621 Midland, TX 79702 or Midland Christian School 2001 Culver Midland, TX 79705.
“When one man dies, one chapter is not torn out of the book but translated into a better language.” – John Donne. Arrangements are under the care of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com.

Eleanor Nunnally
Eleanor Evelyn Nunnally, 92, long-time resident of Rising Star, Texas, passed away on March 1, 2010 in Friendswood, Texas. She was born in Somerville, Texas on June 20, 1917. Eleanor attended Howard Payne University, earning degrees in English and Music. While attending Howard Payne she met the love of her life, Ray Nunnally. They were married February 2, 1937, and lived most of their 62 years together in Rising Star where they raised their three children, Kenneth, Kay, and Debbie. Eleanor taught high school English for many years and ended her career as an elementary reading specialist. She was also a devoted member of the Rising Star Church of Christ and taught Sunday school kindergarten classes for over twenty years. Eleanor had a great appreciation for music and was an accomplished pianist and vocalist. She also loved a good book and passed her love of reading and learning to her children and grandchildren at an early age. One of her greatest joys was spending time with her family. She would spend many hours preparing unforgettable meals and her peach shortcake and cream pies are legendary! A passionate Dallas Cowboys fan, Eleanor became very knowledgeable about football, and she could compete with the best of the armchair quarterbacks. Eleanor was a devoted and loving daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Hardworking and self-sacrificing, she exemplified her greatest lessons in life…to “do your best” and “be kind” to others. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ray Nunnally and brother, Alton Tucker, of College Station. She is survived by her son, Ken Nunnally and wife Gay of Angleton, Texas; daughters, Kay and husband Bruce Belk of Pearland, Texas and Debbie and husband Gary Zoet of Conroe, Texas. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Chris & Lenny Sparkman, Lisa and Greg LeBoeuf, Jarrod Belk, Jaime and Andy Brantner, Shannon and Drew Black, and Rachel Zoet; as well as great grandchildren Cole Sparkman and Payton and Parker Black. The visitation was held Wednesday, March 3, 2010 from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at the Jeter Memorial Funeral Home Chapel, 311 N. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood, Texas 77546, (281) 992-7200. The Memorial service was held Thursday, March 4, 2010 at 10:00 A.M. at the Friendswood Church of Christ, 2051 West Parkwood, Friendswood, TX 77546, officiated by Mike D. Ross. Burial was held Thursday, March 4, 2010 at 2:30 P.M. at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Somerville, Texas. The family is indebted to the staff of Emeritus Senior Living and Hospice Care Team for their loving care and support of Mrs. Nunnally through her years in Friendswood. She was also blessed immeasurably by her many friends at the Friendswood Church of Christ.

Fred Ziehr
CISCO- Fred Ernest Ziehr, 85, of Cisco passed away March 3, 2010, in Cisco. Services will be at 10:00 AM Saturday, March 6, 2010 at the Redeemer Lutheran Church officiated by Vicar Eric Stinnette. Burial will follow in the Redeemer Lutheran Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation was Friday 5~7:00 PM in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel. Mr. Ziehr was born June 30, 1924, in Cisco to William Fred Ziehr, Sr. and Emma M. (Medack) Ziehr. He spent his entire life farming and ranching in the Cisco Community, and was a member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church. He is survived by a brother, Richard Ziehr & wife, Connie, of Buda, Texas; three nephews and two nieces.

Billy Sharpe
CISCO- Billy L. Sharpe, age 82, passed away Wednesday, March 3, 2010. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, March 6, 2010 at 2:00 pm at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be held before the service from 12:30 – 2:00 pm at Summers-Chambers Funeral Home. Billy Lloyd Sharpe was born on September 13, 1927 in Nimrod, Texas to Floyd Stanley and Gladys (Westerman) Sharpe. He graduated from Cisco High School and then attended Cisco College before serving his country in the United States Army. Billy was a Sergeant and a veteran of the Korean War. While in Korea he was a medic with the 140th tank battalion of the 40th infantry division. He married Dolores Kilgore on January 18, 1953 in Cisco. She preceded him in death on December 5, 2003. Billy was a butcher at Norville & Miller in Cisco plus other locations. He was a member of East Cisco Baptist Church and helped with the Cisco Cemetery Association. Billy will be remembered as a kind hearted, gentle spirit that always took care of his family. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law Rodney L. and Donna Sharpe of Eastland; his daughter and son-in-law Gayle and Lane Alldredge of Ft. Worth; his brother Stanley Sharpe of Houston; and his five grandchildren, Kristopher, Kelsey, and Kaleb Sharpe and Julia and Zachary Alldredge. He will be greatly missed by all of those who knew and loved him.

Daryl Phelps
CARBON- Daryl Phelps, 71, of Carbon passed away March 3, 2010. Graveside services will be held at Eastland Cemetery, Sunday, March 7, 2010 at 2:00 with Randy Beggs officiating. Daryl was born Feb. 14, 1939 in Gorman, TX to Jasper and Lorena Phelps. Daryl was a graduate of Eastland High School and a long time resident of Carbon, TX. He is survived by son, Rodney Phelps, of Colleyville, Tx; daughter, Darla Whitenton and husband Thomas Whitenton of N. Richland Hills, Tx.; step son, Brad Webb of Eastland; sister Thelda Miller and husband Claud Miller of Alamogordo, New Mexico; brother Dr. Jay A. Phelps and wife Katrina of Soniota, Arizona; grandsons Daryl Graham and wife Miranda Graham of Ranger and Zach Bowles of Eastland; granddaughters Bailye and Lexie Whitenton of N. Richland Hills; great-granddaughter Jessa Graham of Ranger and numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews. Daryl is preceded in death by parents Jasper and Lorena Phelps and brother Ron Phelps.

Kenneth Eaves
EASTLAND – Kenneth Neil Eaves of Eastland passed from this life on Friday, February 26, 2010, at the Eastland Memorial Hospital. He was currently employed by Eastland County as Deputy Sheriff Eastland County Courthouse and as the Bailiff for the 11th Court of Appeals. Kenneth’s long time service to the people of Texas began when he became a uniformed officer for the Austin Police Department in 1971. During his time there he served in the uniformed patrol division and the undercover division as well as on the SWAT team. Kenneth continued his law enforcement career on the Hays County Sheriff’s Department, the Eastland County Sheriff’s Department and the Taylor County Sheriff’s Department. He also served as Chief of Police for Cisco. In 1982 the joined the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as a Game Warden. He retired from there after serving in Galveston and Sterling Counties for a total of twenty years. Kenneth returned to law enforcement in 2006, accepting his current position at the Eastland County Courthouse. Kenneth was born in Gorman on September 15, l945 and attended school in Carbon and Abernathy, graduating from Comanche High School in l964. He earned his Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from Central Texas College. He always loved the outdoors and promoted youth hunts and gun safety wherever he was working. Kenneth is survived by his wife Maggie Eaves, his daughter Laura Pearson, his son Cary Eaves, his grandsons Jacob Aaron Pearson, Toby Lee Pearson, Sean Kurtis Pearson, and Camden Price. He is also survived by his mother Verda Jean Eaves, his brother Donald Eaves, his sister Dolores Peterson and husband Mark of Houston, his niece Annalisa Peterson and two nephews Marshall and Tony Peterson and multiple aunts, uncles and cousins. Graveside services were held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, March 2 at Simpson Cemetery near Carbon, Texas. A viewing was held from 6:00-8:00 pm Monday, March 1, at Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland. The family requests donations be made to the West Texas Rehabilitation Center.

Ronald Smith
MINGUS – Ronald C. Smith, 57, of Mingus, died Monday, March 1, 2010 in a North Richland Hills hospital. Graveside services were held at 2:00 P.M. Thursday, March 4, 2010 at the New Gordon Cemetery with Rev. Michael Orsini officiating, directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Strawn. Visitation was 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home. Ronald was born April 2, 1952 in Gilmer, Texas to Alfred Cleo and Virstie Marie Williams Smith. He graduated from Arlington High School. He had worked as an auto mechanic and enjoyed music, playing the drums and fishing. Survivors include one sister, Delores Witt of Gordon, TX; and cousin, Linda Halcomb of Mansfield, TX.

George Douglas, Jr.
CISCO- Funeral services for George Washington Douglas, Jr., 82, of Cisco, were held Monday, March 1, 2010 at 2:00 PM at Redeemer Lutheran Church, officiated by Vicar Eric Stinnette. Burial followed in Oakwood Cemetery. He passed from this life on February 26, 2010, in Abilene, TX. He was born to George W. and Ruth Marie (Bridges) Douglas March 26, 1927, in Ibex, TX. He served in the United States Army World War II occupation forces in Germany. He married Beulah Irene Preston on July 12, 1947 in Eastland, TX. They were married 61 yrs. until her death December 14, 2008. They lived in Cisco, later moving to Kermit, Orla, Pecos, and Odessa, TX. He was employed with Phillips Petroleum Co. as a Instrument Technician for 26 yrs. retiring in 1986. George and Beulah returned to Cisco in 1994. He was a member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church. He was a devoted husband and father. His hobbies included CB radios, go-carts, and Blue-grass music festivals. He was a master tinkerer and loved any type of gadget. An engineer at heart, he could fix or improve almost anything. George is survived by a son, George V. Douglas and wife, Nancy, of Cisco; a daughter, Beverly Wiley and husband, Wendell of Saginaw, TX; a sister, Jackie (Hendricks) Plumlee, and husband, Walt, of Abilene, TX. Also surviving are grandchildren: April Dicarlo and husband, Richard of Ft. Worth, Airon Iversen and husband, Tyler of Harker Heights, TX ,Amy Parten and husband, Todd, of Cisco, Stuart Wiley and wife, Haley and Bradley Wiley of Ft. Worth, TX, and Holly Wiley of Haltom City, TX. His great grandchildren include Amber and Kathryn DiCarlo, Haleigh and Reid Iversen, Makayla and Kelsey Parten, and Nicole Yowell; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Paul R. Douglas. He was dearly loved and will be missed by his family and all that knew him.

Jerry Don Carey
BAYTOWN- Jerry Don Carey, 69, of Baytown was born February 22, 1941 in Cisco, Texas and passed away Friday, February 26, 2010 in a hospital in Baytown. He enjoyed watching country and western movies and riding his tractor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Mildred Carey and brothers and sisters, Winford Carey, Vernell Lindley, Patsy Terry and Ronald Carey. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Wanda Carey of Baytown; sons and daughters-in-law, Jerry and Connie Carey of Baytown and Robert and Laura Carey of Beach City; daughter and son-in-law, Norma and Robert Parks of Baytown; brothers and sisters-in-law, Edwin and Joyce Carey of Baytown and Gayle and Alva Carey of Caddo; sister and brother-in-law, Dyann and Joe Conway of Baytown; grandchildren, Chad Parks, Chelsy Kemp, Joshua, Lindsay and Sarah Carey and Macey Anglin; great grandchildren, Randy Parks, McKayla Martindale, Ryan Parks, Jayden Kemp and soon to arrive Christopher Anglin; sister-in-laws, Shirley Clement of Mesquite, Brenda Finley, and Connie Clement both of Cisco; and numerous nieces and nephews. His family received friends at Navarre Funeral Home Sunday from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Graveside services were held Monday, March 1, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at Cedarcrest Cemetery. Arrangements under the direction and personal care of Navarre Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, TX.

Danny Brooks
EASTLAND- Danny Brooks, age 58, passed away on Wednesday, February 24, 2010. Graveside funeral services were held on Monday, March 1, 2010 at 11 a.m. at Eastland Cemetery under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. Danny Al Brooks was born on January 26, 1952 in Ranger, Texas to Charles Francis and Hallie Odelia (Phelps) Brooks. He graduated from Eastland High School in 1970. Danny was a long time mechanic in Eastland and as of late worked with his nephew Michael Brooks doing ranch work. He attended River of Life Church in Eastland. Danny was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Donald and Michael; and three sisters, Jessie, Jackie and Jane. He is survived by one son, Casey Brooks and wife Deanna of Ft. Walton Beach, Florida; one brother, Lewis Brooks and wife Gail of Pflugerville, TX; four sisters, Ann Williamson of Selman City, TX, Rowena Lassiter and husband Frank of Ranger, Billie Shaddix of Red Oak, TX and Cathreen Bullock and husband Dwayne of Olden, TX; and 27 nieces and nephews.

Gloria Benton
Gloria Helen Henson Benton age 82, formerly of Burnet and Marble Falls passed away Monday, February 22, 2010, at her daughter’s home in Liberty Hill, Texas. She was born August 4, 1927, in Kinston, North Carolina to Ira John “Satch” Henson and Bobbie (LaRue) Henson. Gloria grew up in Cisco, Texas and graduated from Cisco High School. On January 15, 1948 she married R.M. “Roy” Benton and they returned to Cisco early in their married life to raise their family. Gloria graduated from Hardin Simmons University with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees and taught classes at Cisco Junior College for many years. The family moved to Beeville, Texas in 1968 where Gloria again taught classes at Bee County College. Upon retirement in 1985 Gloria and Roy moved to the hill country in and around Burnet, Texas. They spent the next few years traveling widely across the U.S. and enjoying retirement and family. Gloria was a devoted wife and mother who loved her family above all. She embraced life and lived it to the fullest with an intensity and vibrancy that was hers alone. Gloria made many lifelong friends over the years in Cisco, Beeville, Burnet and Marble Falls and in their travels across the country. Her friends were dear and precious to her and she kept in touch with one and all through old-fashioned hand written letters and cards. Nothing could brighten her day more than to receive a card or letter or phone call from an old friend. She was an avid reader and loved crossword puzzles. The last few years she particularly enjoyed her poodle Maggie who was a special companion to her. Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 53 years, Roy Benton, and her grandson Christopher Dean. Gloria is survived by her daughter Barbara Dean of Liberty Hill, daughter Beverly Todd and husband John of Sugar Land, Texas, son John Benton and wife Jannet of Frazier Park, California and daughter Mary Contreras. She is also survived by her sister Nancy Lynn “Buzze” Durham of Huntsville, Texas and by grandchildren Courtney Dean, John B. Todd III and wife Liz, Heather Linville and husband A.J., and James, Justin, and Amy Contreras, and by 5 great grandchildren. Arrangements made by Clements-Wilcox Funeral Home Burnet, Texas.

J. L. Maynard
EASTLAND – J.L. Maynard, age 72, passed away on Sunday, February 21, 2010. Graveside funeral services were held on Friday, February 26, 2010 at 11:00 am at Brown Cemetery in Eastland County under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. J.L. Maynard, known to friends as Stubby, was born on July 26, 1937 in Carbon, Texas to Melvin and Velma (Johnson) Maynard. He served his Country in the United States Army from 1960 – 1962. He was a farmer his entire life. When he was younger he worked on a large farm in Eastern Oklahoma and loved to recount old stories from this time in his life to his nieces, nephews, and great-nephews. J.L. loved to feed the fish in the many tanks, put out feed for the various animals that ventured into his yard, and place water bowls for the birds to drink from. He found his peace in the land and animals that surrounded him. He was fond of saying that everything he ever needed to know he learned from ‘the good book’ and he liked to recite scripture when he was in deep thought. We are blessed to know that the long list of questions he had for God are now being answered. J.L. fought his final battle with lung cancer with courage, optimism and humor. He knew that he was loved while he was on this planet and he knew that love and freedom awaited him when he passed. We will miss you Stubby and are so grateful to have had you to love. He is survived by his siblings, Walter Maynard of Eastland, Velma Carson of May, Eldon Maynard of Murphy and Gene Maynard of May; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Memorials in J.L.’s name may be sent to the American Cancer Society or Southwestern Medical Simmons Cancer Center in Dallas.

Shi Ann Henson-Lewis
Shi Ann “Niki” Henson-Lewis of Kaufman passed away on January 25, 2010 in Kaufman, Texas. She was born January 4, 1994 in Eastland, Texas to Randall Lewis and Brenda (Morris) Lewis. Shi Ann loved dolphins and loved spending time with family, friends, and her pets. She really enjoyed school while attending Kaufman. Those left to celebrate her life are her parents, Brenda and Randall Lewis of Kaufman, Texas; a brother, Tyler Henson-Lewis of Kaufman, Texas; and two sisters, Ceionna Lewis of Quinlan, Texas, and Mykayla Lewis of Dallas, Texas; grandparents, Jimmy Lewis of Kaufman, Texas; Randy Lewis of Dade City, Florida; Cindy Curb and husband Don of Stephenville, Texas; Laura Clark of Eastland, Texas; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Cynthia Dunklin
CISCO- Cynthia Joan Dunklin, 65, of Cisco passed away in Eastland Memorial Hospital Monday, February 22, 2010. Arrangements for cremation were made by Kimbrough Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will be held later.

Debra England
EASTLAND – Debra England, 53, of Eastland, passed away Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at her residence. Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Sunday, February 28, 2010 at the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Eastland with Pastor Denver Rainey officiating. Burial will follow in the Eastland City Cemetery. Debra was born on January 31, 1957 to William Griffin and Ruby King Hobbs in Ranger, TX. She graduated from Carbon High School and worked in Home Health. She was married to Robert England who preceded her in death on November 20, 1992. She was also preceded in death by her father and a grandchild. Survivors include her mother, Ruby King & her husband Eddie; children, Rhonda Aller & husband Ken, Ricky Lee and Koretha Griffin; brothers, Calvin Griffin & wife Margaret, Dale Griffin & wife Mary and Tommy McCoy & wife Mindy; sister, Shelly Singleton & husband Jaret; 9 grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Horace Nunnally
CISCO-- Horace Gale Nunnally, 85, of Cisco passed away on Saturday, February 20, 2010 at Abilene Regional Medical Center. Visitation with family and friends was held 5:00-7:00 PM Tuesday at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services, officiated by Reverend James O. Teel, will be 2:00 PM Wednesday, February 24, 2010, in the funeral home chapel. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Mr. Nunnally was born in Rising Star, Texas on June 2, 1924 to Thomas Jefferson and Elizabeth (Montgomery) Nunnally. He served in Army Air Corps during World War II. He married Ruby Nell Whitehead of Cisco on January 25, 1947. He worked for General Dynamics as an aircraft machinist. Mr. Nunnally was an honest, hard-working, simple man who loved Jesus. He was content to take his wife and teach his daughters how to camp, hunt, fish & water ski which they loved as much as he did. He adored his wife and girls. He cherished and protected them, and they all cherished and adored him as well. He is survived by his wife, Ruby Nunnally, of Cisco; daughters, Gayla Robinson and husband Irvin, Cindy Kersey, all of Putnam, Kelly Stowbridge of Cisco; brother, Bob Nunnally and wife, Joy, of Abilene; brother-in-law, Jim Whitehead, of Cisco; sisters-in-law, Ruth Whitehead of Abilene and Eleanor Nunnally; grandchildren, Burke Robinson, T.J. Kersey, Stacy Watson, David Lee Stowbridge, Jennifer Renee Stowbridge; great grandchildren, Brittainy Graham, Sierra Robinson, Kaitlyn Robinson, Ashton Shuck and Robert Lee Stowbridge. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Alton (Son) Nunnally, and Ray Nunnally; sisters, Geneva Wallace and Ruby Bailey, and a grandson, Russell Robinson. He will be greatly missed by all including nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Pallbearers will be grandchildren, Burke Robinson, T.J. Kersey, Dustin Watson, David Lee Stowbridge, and Caleb Benton and a nephew, David Whitehead.

Wanda Simmons
Wanda Jean Simmons, 75, of Round Rock, Texas, formerly of Eastland, Texas, passed away February 17, 2010 surrounded by her family. She was born February 7, 1935 in Abilene, Texas to Jessie Paul Abels & Leona Elizabeth Gire (Abels). She is survived by her children, one son, Rick Simmons; two daughters, Chris Abels and Sharon Bulgerin & husband Curtis: grandchildren, Kindra & Chris Gonzalez, Kristi & Anthony McGhee, & Kevin Bulgerin; great grandson, Aaron McGhee; sisters Melba Townzen, Francis Parker, Lorraine Cryer, Cookie Breshears, & Ima Carlton; brothers Bobby Abels, L.G. Abels, Roy Abels & Troy Abels; and numerous nieces, nephews, and close family friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Pauline Burch, Xyrepha Horrell, and Elizabeth Nix; and one brother, Delbert Abels. The family received guests for a visitation on Friday, February 19, 2010 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Beck Funeral Home in Pflugerville, Texas. The service was held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 20, 2010 at Beck Funeral Home in Pflugerville, Texas. The Reverend Rob Moore of Durant, Oklahoma officiated the service. Burial followed at Taylor City Cemetery in Taylor, Texas.

Linda 'Irene' Rogers
STRAWN – Linda “Irene” Rogers, 83, passed away peacefully in her home on Friday, February 19, 2010 in Weatherford. A memorial service will be held Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 3:00 P.M. at the Mingus Baptist Church, 521 Patrick St, Mingus, TX. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Mingus Baptist Church. Irene was born in Palo Pinto County on June 26, 1922 to Lon and Letha Savage. Irene was a fantastic cook and enjoyed cooking for others. She loved planting flowers, tending to her garden and quilting. She was very creative and had a keen sense of humor. Irene was always willing to help anyone in need. She has a large family and many friends and will be missed by all. Survivors include one brother, Jimmy Savage and wife Mary; two sons, Monroe Rogers and wife Linda, Pat Rogers and wife Betty; three daughters, Paula Mortimer, Kelley Rogers and Teresa Lloyd; fourteen grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and her dog and faithful companion, Bo.

Patricia Murphy
CISCO- Patricia Joan Murphy 56, of Cisco passed from this life Saturday, February 20, 2010 at Eastland Memorial Hospital. She will be cremated. Memorial Service was held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel. Mrs. Murphy was born in Riverside, California on March 19, 1953 to Donald Frederick and Rita (O’Connell) Smith. She graduated from Northwest High School in Rives Junction, Michigan. She was a gifted seamstress. Her son had a theater in Chicago, and she spent many hours making costumes. Knitting was another hobby which she enjoyed. For five years she drove a school bus. Patricia moved to Texas in 2000 and married Pat Murphy September 9, 2004. She was a loving and caring wife and mother and will be greatly missed. Survivors include her husband, Pat, of Cisco; sons, Curtis Omana and Anthony Adams of Chicago; daughter, Kristy Adams Johnson, of Constantine, Michigan; mother, Rita Smith of Pleasant Lake, Michigan; sisters, Donna Joslin, Carroll Smith, Sharon Roberts and Kathy Bourgeious. A brother, Kevin Smith, preceded her in death.

James McCormick
EASTLAND – James McCormick, age 75, passed away on Monday, February 15, 2010. Funeral services were held on Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:00 am at Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed at Eastland Cemetery. A visitation was held on Thursday, February 18, 2010 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at the funeral home. James Scott McCormick was born on December 13, 1934 in Floydada, Texas to Robert Scott and Mary Fay (Summerland) McCormick. He attended high school in Lockney and married Altha Kellar on November 9, 1953 in Floydada. They were blessed with over fifty six years of marriage and two children. Very soon after James and Altha married they moved to Eastland. He owned and operated J & A Bargain Box and truly enjoyed spending much time talking to the customers. Later he worked for the Eastland ISD maintenance department. He was a member of Harmony Baptist Church. He loved spending time with his family and friends. They were his true joy. James is survived by his wife, Altha, of Eastland; his son, J. R. McCormick and Kim Bays, of Eastland; his daughter, Carolyn Arnold and Bill Patton, of Eastland; his sisters, Lajuanna Swan and Nita Hyer and her husband Robert; four grandchildren and five step-grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren (with one on the way) and four step-great-grandchildren.

Lonnie 'Primo' McCurry
EASTLAND – Lonnie Dean “Primo” McCurry, age 90, passed away on Wednesday, February 17, 2010. Funeral services were held on Friday, February 19, 2010 at 2:30 pm at Summers-Bakker Funeral Home Chapel located at 411 S. Mulberry St. in Eastland. Burial followed at Murray Cemetery in Carbon. A visitation was held on Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 6:00 pm at the Connellee Hotel located at 209 W. Main St. in Eastland. Lonnie Dean “Primo” McCurry was born March 7, 1919 in Wareka, Oklahoma to Mark Vernon and Lillie Bell McCurry. He grew up in Lubbock Texas and graduated from Lubbock High School and Texas Tech University. “Primo”, a name derived from his days at Lubbock High boxing after Primo Carnera, Italian world Heavyweight boxer, graduated from Texas tech in 1941. Primo played on the 9-1-1 football team in 1939. During his senior year in 1940, he served as one of the team’s captains. Lonnie was inducted into the Texas Tech Hall of Honor in 2000 and as an All-American guard in 1940. Lonnie was invited by Coach Mike Leach to give the 2008 football team a motivational speech before the biggest game in Tech history. As Tech defeated the University of Texas the players and coaches felt Primo’s inspirational words were a key factor in the upset. Lonnie was an ex-Marine who fought in World War II at Bouganville in Solomon Islands, then the reacquisition of Guam followed by the Axis defeat at Iwo Jima where he was on troop carriers with the amphibious and ground fleet going ashore. He retired from the Marine Corp in 1960 as a Lt. Colonel. He and Arlene then moved to Austin and lived there many years then moved to Houston, Texas and later to Missouri City, Texas. He was a real estate broker in Missouri City with his wife where they owned their own real estate business. They moved to Eastland in 1987 to take care of his in-laws. They bought their home there and enjoyed many years with their family close to them. Lonnie enjoyed many happy times being with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He resided in Valley View Nursing home with his wife who preceded him in death on January 26, 2010. He is survived by one sister, Pearlie Jean Suttle of Lubbock; one son and daughter-in-law, Dean and Gail McCurry of Lewisville, Texas; one daughter and son-in-law, Dyanne and Doug Thompson of Baird, Texas; and his five grandchildren, Brad and Debbie Thompson of Albany, Texas, Bryan and Charlotte Thompson of San Angelo, Texas, Kaylen and Nick Meserve of Dallas, Texas, Scott McCurry of Dallas, Texas and Kevin McCurry of Dallas, Texas. He is also survived by four great-grandchildren who are Taylor Thompson of Albany, Tanner Thompson of Albany, Kelsi Thompson of San Angelo and Katie Thompson of San Angelo and several nieces and nephews. Memorials can be made to Gideon’s International, Hendrick Hospice of Abilene or the memorial of your choice.

James Callaway
ABILENE- James Laurence Callaway, known to many friends as “Cowboy”, was born on February 12, 1948 to James W. Callaway and Wilma Rae Exum Callaway in Cisco, Texas. He left this earth on February 15, 2010 to join his Daddy in the arms of the Lord. Visitation was held at Piersall-Benton Funeral Home, 733 Butternut St. Thursday, February 18 from 5-7pm. Graveside services were held in Cisco, Texas on Friday February 19 at 11:00 AM. James grew up and attended school in Cisco, Haskell, Eula and Abilene. Jimmy married Mary E. Lancaster on August 4, 1966. He joined the Navy in 1967. Mary and Jimmy resided in Millington, Tennessee during his time in the service. Later they raised three girls in Abilene, Texas. Jimmy worked at Shook Tire Company for many years being known as one of the best “Tire Men” in the area. Later, he worked for McAlister Oil Company, Bandera Drilling Company, and Western Auto. Among his many interests were country music, especially Hank Williams Sr. and Johnny Cash. He loved watching NASCAR races, Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Jr. being his favorites. He enjoyed long drives and family trips. Most memorable to his children were the spur of the moment, get up in the middle of the night “lets go” ones. Preceding him in death was his daddy, James W. Callaway, who passed away on October 31, 2009. Survivors include his mother Wilma, his former wife Mary Lancaster and their three daughters: Kyla Callaway, her husband Terry, and their three children, Jordon, David, and Cheyenne; Starla Callaway, and her four children Justin, Brandon, Dakotah, and Destiny; Jaime Love, her husband Jonathan, and their three girls Paradice, Casey, and Caribbean. He is also survived by two sisters Betty Jo Reyes; Bonnel Templin, and her husband Jerry, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was deeply loved and will be missed by all, especially his three daughters: Kyla, Starla, and Jaime. We would like to give a special thank you to the Staff at Hendrick Medical Center who took extra special care of our loved one and to his really good friend Calvin Donaldson for his valiant effort to save his life. We are grateful for everyone’s love and support at our time of need. Condolences can be offered to the family at: www.pbfuneraldirectors,com

Edgar Whately
CLYDE- Edgar Whatley, 80, of Clyde died Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at an Abilene hospital. Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, February 19, 2010 at the Clyde Cemetery directed by Bailey-Howard Funeral Home. Visitation was held Thursday evening. Mr. Whatley was born February 7, 1930 in Cisco, Texas to Henry and Hattie Marie (Moore) Whatley. He graduated from Cisco High School and later attended Cisco Jr. College and Hardin Simmons. He married Johnnie Chancellor on October 3, 1952 in Eastland. They moved to Clyde from Abilene in 1985. He served nine years in the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force. He and his wife later owned and operated H & H Greenhouse in Clyde. He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; one son, Edgar “Eddie” Whatley, Jr.; five brothers and four sisters. Survivors are one daughter, Tammie Taylor of Clyde; 3 grandchildren, Christopher Taylor, Shane Taylor, and Nicole Taylor; one great-granddaughter, Kaylee Paige Taylor; and two sisters, Thelma Shaffer and Laura Maynard, both of Cisco.

Marvin 'Jack' Leveridge
Marvin “Jack” Ray Leveridge, 85 of Breckenridge passed away at his home on Saturday February 13, 2010. A Memorial Service at First United Methodist Church in Breckenridge was held at 10:00 AM Monday, February 15, 2010. Graveside services officiated by Reverend Jeff Miller was held at 2:00 PM Monday at Scranton Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home in Cisco. Jack was born in Scranton, Texas on February 19, 1924 to John Chandler and Ethel Lutitia (Jobe) Leveridge. He served in the US Navy during World War II serving in the Pacific. He attended Cisco Junior where he received an Associate Degree. On June 7, 1947 he married Lenoir Beth Addy in Cisco, Texas they were married 59 years before she preceded him in death on September 18, 2006. Jack worked an independent oil operator. He is survived by a daughter, Kathryn L. Hoffman and husband Fred of Arlington; son, Michael Ray Leveridge and wife Rosa of Breckenridge and Robert Steven Leveridge and wife Linda of Euless; grandchildren, Kay Waldrep, Coby Rogers, Sara Browning, Michael Leveridge, Brad Leveridge, and Shalea Wooldridge; 12 great grandchildren; nieces Carol Lucas and Susan Addy; and nephew Andy Lucas. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife and sister, Johnnie King. Pallbearers are Coby Rogers, Brad Leveridge, Michael Leveridge, Johnny Oats, Jerry Taylor and Dickie Rogers. The Piranha Coffee Club members and Andy Lucas will serve as honorary pallbearers. Jack was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 419 West Walker Street, Breckenridge, Texas 76424-3449.

Mary Hale
DEER PARK- Mary Jane Todd Hale of Deer Park, Texas passed away on February 7, 2010, at the age of 90. She was born on May 16, 1919, in Ranger, Texas to W.R. Todd and Lorene Rust. Mary Jane was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Twyman Hale, grandson, Derek Richardson, son-in-law, John Richardson, sisters, Trophie Green, Jimmie Beth Harrison, and brother, Monte F. Todd. She is survived by daughter, Phyllis Richardson; granddaughter, Jill Richardson; great-grandson, Tom Grice; sisters, Jean Griffith and Connie Johnstone; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Mary Jane was a long time member of First Baptist Church Deer Park and the Silver Set Class. The family would like to express their gratitude to the nurses and staff of San Jacinto Manor for their kindness and excellent caregiving, Dr. Carlos Aguilar, and the staff of A-Med Hospice. A memorial service will be held in Ranger on Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 12:00 until 2:00 p.m. In lieu of customary remembrances donations may be made in Mary Jane’s memory to San Jacinto Manor Activities Fund, 206 W. P Street, Deer Park, TX 77536.

Bobby Ingram
CISCO- Bobby Ray Ingram, 69, of Cisco passed away February 14, 2010, in Abilene. Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at 2:00 PM at Calvary Baptist Church with Reverend Ronnie Shackelford and Reverend Zachary Tunnell officiating. Burial will follow in the Oakwood Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation was held Tuesday 5~7:00 PM in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel. Bobby was born November 1, 1940, in Nimrod, Texas, to Calvin Henry and Virgie Florence (Burge) Ingram. He attended school at Cisco and Ranger. He married Peggy Sue Snider January 10, 1962, in Eastland. He retired as a Sergeant First Class after 20 years of service in the US Army. Bobby retired again after working 20 years for the U. S. Postal Service in Cisco. He took great pride each day in raising and lowering the flag. He also spent seven and one-half years as a gate keeper for the Corps of Engineers. Fishing was one of his important things to do. More than anything else, he was a true Cisco Lobo fan. He served the community several years on the Cisco City Council. Bobby was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church. Survivors include Peggy, his wife of 48 years; two sons, Randall and Bobby and wife, Missy, all of Cisco; brother, Windell Ingram and wife, Linda, and sister, Rozet Withers and husband, Bruce, of Jacksboro; granddaughters, Lacy Jessup and husband, A.J., Shyla Ingram, Jessica, Ingram and Alisabeth Ingram; grandson, Brock Ingram and great-grandson, A. J. Jessup.

Lovie Bishop
RISING STAR- Lovie Fae Bishop, 91, of Rising Star, Texas passed away on Monday, February 15, 2010 in Comanche, Texas. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, February 19, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Rising Star, Texas with Terry Simmons officiating and Dick Williams assisting. Burial will be in the Rising Star Cemetery in Rising Star, Texas with Higginbotham Funeral Home of Rising Star in charge. Lovie was born on October 19, 1919 in Bay City, Texas to Eugene Britton and Lovie Mae Almand-Jarrell. She married John Wesley Bishop on on November 12, 1936 in Goliad, Texas, who preceded her in death on January 21, 1987. She was a homemaker and member of the First Baptist Church. She lived in the Rising Star community since 1953. She is survived by her two sons, Gene Bishop and his wife, Sue of Rising Star, Curtis Bishop of Springbranch; four daughters, Barbara Smedley and husband, R.L. of Rising Star, Lovey Nichols and husband, James of Cross Plains, Ginger Botts of Hawley, Dorothy Ivey of Rising Star; sister-in-law, Lucy Jarrell of Gilmer; 9 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John Wesley Bishop; son, Jarrel Bishop; three grandsons, Tracy Smedley, James Bishop, Ken Bishop; brother, Curtis Jarrell; sister, Mae Standerfer. The family will have a time of visitation at the funeral home from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, February 18, 2010.

Dorothy Reynolds Light
CARBON - Dorothy Nadine Reynolds was born October 16, 1919, in Moriarty, New Mexico, to John Stephens and Myrtle Easter (Welch) Reynolds. Her grandparents were George Washington and Emma Elizabeth (Owens) Reynolds and George Washington and Maggie Ann (Sigman) Welch. Her family lived in Moriarty, Albuquerque, Truth or Consequences, Roswell, and Hatch, New Mexico, and several other places. She began school in Anadarko, Oklahoma, but by the next fall, they were in Littlefield, Texas. In January 1937, her family moved to Pawnee, Texas, where she lived until May 10, 1940, at which time she married Earl Hamilton, whom she met at a singing convention in Ray Point, Texas. Earl, the father of all Dorothy’s children, was the son of James Benjamin and Martha Annie (Blankenship) Hamilton. The newlyweds lived on Sulfur Creek, near Ray Point, Texas until their house and almost all its contents burned in February 1941. On Thanksgiving Day, 1941, Earl and Dorothy moved to a farm and ranch at the community of Fant City near Three Rivers, where they still lived when Earl passed away on August 3, 1965. Dorothy married John Franklin Light, son of Mike Dixon and Amanda (Parker) Light, on October 1, 1967, in Oakville, Texas. Dorothy and John moved to Carbon, Texas, where John died January 29, 1994. Dorothy died at home in Carbon on February 14, 2010. Dorothy loved history and especially loved traveling. She also enjoyed sewing and reading. Dorothy was a member of the Carbon Baptist Church for many years. She attended Baptist churches all her life, and sometimes taught Sunday school. For a time, she and a group of her fellow Carbon church members sang weekly at a nearby nursing home. Dorothy was a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy. She was particularly proud of her several Confederate ancestors, as well as of those who fought in the War of 1812 and the American Revolution. She was also proud of her grandsons who fought in recent wars. Dorothy’s primary role in life, other than that of wife, was nurturer of children. For 5 years she raised two grandchildren. She also took in and/or cared for a nephew, a great-niece, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as a few others. In addition to both husbands and all her ancestors, Dorothy was preceded in death by daughters, Neomia Delores Tooke and Janice Beatrice Light, by sons, Ted David Hamilton and twin infants, by siblings, Luttie Beatrice Haley, Lottie Ruth Hines, Goldie Geneve Graves, Eloise Margaree Rogers, Leroy Robert Reynolds, Mildred Lorene Russell, Delores Oretha Larsen, and Johnney Edward Reynolds. Dorothy is survived by her brother, George Washington Reynolds (wife Leone) of Portales, New Mexico, son, Clyde Earl Hamilton (wife Frances) of Carbon, Texas, daughter, Valeria Anette Duckworth (husband Tommy) of Ennis, Texas, stepson, Leonard Franklin Light (wife Eileen), and by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She will be greatly missed. A visitation will be held at Summers-Bakker Funeral Home in Eastland on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 1:00 pm at Carbon Baptist Church. Dorothy will be buried beside John at Murray Cemetery at Carbon.

Vassie Trout
EASTLAND – Vassie Niles Turner Trout, of Eastland, passed away Monday, February 15, 2010, at the age of 87. Visitation was held from 6~8 P.M, Tuesday, February 16th at Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland. Funeral services will be at 11 A.M. Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at the First United Methodist Church in Eastland, where she was a member for many years. Burial will follow in the Eastland City Cemetery. She was born October 23, 1922 in Wapamuck, Oklahoma. She moved to Moran, TX as a child and then at age 18 she moved to Eastland, Texas. She married Red Turner in 1940. He preceded her in death in 1980. She then married Earl Trout in 1982. They were residents of Eastland County until her death. She is survived by her husband, Earl Trout; sister, Lou Dell Crook of Palestine, TX; brother, Buster White of Sweetwater, TX; 5 nephews; and 1 niece. Also surviving her are 1 son, Billy Don Turner & wife Carol of Tulsa, OK; 4 grandchildren; and 1 great-grandchild. She is also survived by 1 step-daughter, Tam Slezia of Stephenville; 1 step-son, Terry Trout and wife Jan of Eastland; 3 step-grandchildren; and 3 step-great-grandchildren. The family requests that in lieu of flowers a donation be made to a favorite charity.

George Hogue
CISCO- George Wayman Hogue, 60 of Cisco passed away Tuesday February 9, 2010 at his home. Mr. Hogue was cremated; a Memorial Service will be 1:00 PM Friday at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Dr. Michael Gentry and Reverend Bob Ferguson. George was born June 27, 1949 in Cisco to Billy and Louise (Cannon) Hogue. He was an electrician. He is survived by his mother, Louise Hogue of Cisco; children, Bobby Hogue of Norman, OK, Michael and Becky Hogue of Oklahoma City, OK, Kathy Hogue, Mollie Hogue and, Mara Hogue all of Cisco; brother, Oren Hogue of Cisco; sister, Linda Hogue of Eastland; grandsons, Jace Fuller and Zaykk Sandefer of Cisco; granddaughters, Mattie and Macie Hogue of Oklahoma City, OK, Tiah and Aliviah Hogue of Norman, OK, Alayna and Aubrey Hogue of Cisco; great grandson, Caleb Longstreet of Norman, OK. He was preceded in death by his father, Billy D. Hogue; brother, Billy Hogue, Jr.; and sister, Debbie Thompson.

James Michael Willoughby
James Michael “Mike” Willoughby, 42, of Needville, Texas passed away on Saturday, February 6, 2010. He is survived by his son, James Willoughby, II; parents James and Pat Willoughby; two sisters, Gaye and husband Gary Landenberger and Kim and husband Chris Buzard; two nephews, Landre and Lathen Buzard, as well as, many other family and friends. Graveside services will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, February 13th, 2010 at Mitchell Cemetery in Cisco, Texas. Condolences can be sent to the family at 725 County Road 142, Cisco, Texas 76437.

Joyce Baker
Joyce Cannon Baker, 74, passed peacefully from this life at Morrilton Healthcare in Morrilton, Arkansas, on February 8, 2010. She was born on February 28, 1935, in Osceola, Arkansas, the only child of Carl Cannon and Inez Garner Cannon. They preceded her in death, as did her former husband and father of her children, Forrest L. Baker. She is survived by two sons, Frank Baker of Millington, Tennessee, and Bart L. Baker and his wife Angela of Clinton, and three daughters, Shirley Bowen and husband Robert of Conway, Rachel Stephens of Paris, and Jenny Roller and husband Ed of Morrilton. She is survived by six grandsons, Seth Baker, Eli Baker, Hunter Stephens, Cliff Elliott, Henry and Max Bowen; by two granddaughters, Sonny Elliott and Abbey Stephens, and by two step-granddaughters, Ashley and Meghan Roller. She is also survived by her aunt, Cleet Anderson of Tupelo, Mississippi, and by a number of friends and relatives. A graduate of Osceola High School and Hendrix College, she was an independent and thoughtful woman who read widely, appreciated the blessings of friends and family, liked to laugh and dearly loved the Catholic Church. She was a devoted fan of Notre Dame football. In her younger years, she enjoyed politics and served as a delegate to the Arkansas Constitutional Convention in 1970. She lived for many years in Rising Star, Texas, where she was co-owner of the Rainbow Café with her good friend Robin Reeves. She loved hosting her grandchildren on summer visits. Joyce was cherished and respected by her children and grandchildren and her presence on this earth will be deeply missed. A simple service for family and friends was held at 2 pm on Thursday, February 11, 2010 at Saint Boniface Catholic Church in Bigelow. The family wishes to thank Dr. Milligan and his staff and the staff at Morrilton Healthcare Center and at Arkansas Hospice for their compassionate care of Joyce in her final days. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Heifer Project International. Arrangements by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Online guestbook: HYPERLINK “http://www.harrisfuneralhomes.net” www.harrisfuneralhomes.net

Sammy Davis
CISCO- Sammy James Davis, 64, of Anson, formerly of Cisco, passed away February 8, 2010, in Eastland. Graveside services officiated by Reverend Doke Johnson will be Wednesday at 2:00 PM in the Gunsight Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home in Cisco. Mr. Davis was born in Cisco on June 15, 1945 to Woodroe Wilson ( Boots) and Mattie Daisy (Burk) Davis. He served in the US Army during Viet Nam and was in the 101 Airborne, he was awarded the Bronze Star for bravery under combat fire in Vietnam, he also received the Purple Heart for wounds received in battle. He worked for Southwestern Bell from 1964-2003 as a cable splicer. He married Kathryn Ann Cameron on November 19, 1990 in Baird. He is survived by his wife Kathryn Ann Davis of Anson; brother, Jim Davis and wife Sharon of Eastland, Doke Johnson and wife Kathy of Eastland, Montie Morton and wife Laura of Necessity; step-son, Mathew Carroll of Abilene; step-daughter, Dawn Ambrose and husband Jim of McAllen; step grandchildren, Mathew Frank Carroll of Abilene, Paige Marie Carroll of Little Rock, Arkansas, Jordan Ambrose of McAllen, Jared Ambrose of McAllen; special friend Kim Noel of Anson.

Nancy Marta
CISCO- Nancy Lea Marta, 73, of Cisco passed away February 6, 2010, at her home. Mrs. Marta was cremated and a memorial service will be 12:00 O’clock noon Saturday, February 13, 2010 in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel. Reverend Steven Forester will officiate. Nancy was born in Lueders, Texas on June 16, 1936 to Henry Athen and Aline Leona (Stuart) NcNelly. She married Leonard Joe Marta on April 19, 1973 in Las Vegas, Nevada, he preceded her in death on October 24, 2009. She was a Certified Nurses Aide and had worked for Tri Star Home Care and was a Baptist. She is survived by her son, Jim Sublett of Cisco; daughter, Cherie Lea Dugan of River View, Florida and a grandson, Alexander James also of River View, Florida.

Glen Wood
EASTLAND – Glen Dale Wood, 83, of Dallas passed away Thursday, February 11, 2010. Graveside services will be at 2 P.M. Saturday, February 13, 2010 in the family plot in the Eastland City Cemetery with Larry Roberts officiating. Glen was born and reared in Eastland, where he attended schools. After school he entered the Army as a Private where he served in the South Pacific in World War II. After returning home he went to John Tarleton College, Cisco Jr. College and graduated from North Texas University in 1951. Glen attended White Rock Church of Christ in Dallas for 30 years. Survivors include 2 sons, Ronald Wood & his wife Jeannie of Richardson and Patrick Wood of Dallas; step-son, Charles Jenkins & his wife Jan; 2 sisters, Melba Mayfield of Arlington and Naomi Parker & her husband Wallace of Carbondale, Colorado; special friends, Becky Cunnicliff and Jackie Burcalow. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the White Rock Church of Christ, 9220 Ferguson Rd, Dallas, TX 75228, or to Custom Care Hospice, 2525 Centerville Rd, Dallas, TX 75228.

Leo Williams
DESDEMONA- Leo Clayton Williams, 82, of Desdemona died Friday, January 5, 2010 at the Eastland Memorial Hospital. Funeral services were held Monday, February 8, 2010 at 10 a.m. graveside in Desdemona Cemetery. Burial followed. Nowlin Anders Funeral Home of DeLeon was in charge of the arrangements. Mr. Williams was born January 2, 1928 in Desdemona to Clayton Hope Williams ad Beulah Kay Williams. He was a farmer and rancher. He married Eloise Wisdom on January 23, 1949 in Desdemona. He served in the U.S. Navy during WW II. He was employed as an ag teacher and principal before moving to Eastland County, where he lived and farmed since 1972. He was a member of various agricultural organizations, served as State Director for Farm Bureau and locally on the Soil Conservation Board. Survivors are one son, David Williams; three daughters, Donna Moore, Delores Helms and Enid Williams; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren; sister, Evelyn Yardley of Desdemona. He was preceded in death by his wife, Eloise Williams; one brother and one sister; and his parents. Memorials may be sent to the Desdemona Activity Center P.O. Box 2, Desdemona, Texas 76445.

Corbett Brown
BRECKENRIDGE-Corbett Brown, 90, died Saturday, February 6, 2010 in Beaumont. Funeral service will be Wednesday , February 10, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. in the Woodson Church of Christ with Royce Priddy officiating. Burial will follow in the Woodson Cemetery. The family received friends at the funeral home on Tuesday evening from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home. Corbett was born on July 12, 1919 in Caddo to Bolivar Brown and Myrtle White Brown. He worked for Lone Star Gas and was a horse trainer. He served his country in the US Navy during WWII. He was a member of the Church of Chirst and a past member of the Breckenridge Masonic Lodge. Corbett is survived by his wife, Mary Brown of Kountze; sons, Corby Ray Brown and wife, Susie of Weatherford and Deryl Dwayne Brown and wife, Margaret of DeLeon; Neish Brown of Woodson, 4 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, 5 brothers, and 2 sisters. Memorials may be made to the donor’s favorite charity. The family invites friends to leave a condolence or share a memory of Corbett in our online guestbook at www.meltonkitchens.com

Nancy Marta
CISCO- Nancy Lee Marta, 73, of Cisco passed away February 6, 2010, at her home. Services are pending with Kimbrough Funeral Home in Cisco.

Rudy Aguilar
EASTLAND –Rudy Aguilar, 83, of Eastland County, passed away Saturday, February 6, 2010 at his residence. Memorial services will be held at a later date, directed by Edwards Funeral Home of Eastland.

Sammy Davis
CISCO- Sammy James Davis, 64, of Anson, formerly of Cisco, passed away February 8, 2010, in Eastland. Graveside services officiated by Reverend Doke Johnson will be Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at 2:00 PM in the Gunsight Cemetery under the direction of Kimbrough Funeral Home in Cisco. Mr. Davis was born in Cisco on June 15, 1945 to Woodroe Wilson and Mattie Daisy (Burk) Davis. He served in the US Army during Viet Nam and was in the 101 Airborne. He worked for Southwestern Bell from 1964-2003 as a cable splicer. He married Kathryn Ann Cameron on November 19, 1990 in Baird. He is survived by his wife Kathryn Ann Davis of Anson; brother, Jim Davis and wife Sharon of Eastland, Doke Johnson and wife Kathy of Eastland, Montie Morton and wife Laura of Necessity; step-son, Mathew Carroll of Abilene; step-daughter, Dawn Ambrose and husband Jim of McAllen; step grandchildren, Mathew Frank Carroll of Abilene, Paige Marie Carroll of Little Rock, Arkansas, Jordan Ambrose of McAllen, Jared Ambrose of McAllen; special friend Kim Noel of Anson.

John 'Jack' Webber
ANSON - John H. “Jack” Webber, 88, died Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at Anson General Hospital. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, February 1, 2010 at First Baptist Church with Jim Lee Baucum officiating. Burial was in Eastland City Cemetery in Eastland, TX. directed by Adams-Graham Funeral Home. Born April 17, 1921 in Boston, Maine, Jack was a son of the late John Henry and Maida (Alsop) Webber. He attended Albany schools and married Joy Yates Lewis December 12, 1975 in Waurika, Oklahoma. Jack worked as a heavy equipment operator and was a member of First Baptist Church. He was preceded in death his parents, daughter (Linda Kay), son (Henry Webber), two step-sons (Greg Daniel and Dwight Lewis). Survivors include his wife, Joy Webber of Anson; three sons, Jason Lewis of Anson, Billy Daniel of Austin and James Webber of New Braunfels; three daughters, Desiree Lewis, Brenda Harrison and Tifani Smith; three stepbrothers; two stepsisters; 12 grandchildren; and 14 great grandchildren.

Marvelene Armstrong
EASTLAND – Marvelene Armstrong, 89, of Eastland, passed away Monday, February 1, 2010 in Eastland. The family will receive friends at Edwards Funeral Home on Wednesday from 6 until 8 P.M. Funeral services will be held at 10 A.M. Thursday at the First Baptist Church in Eastland with Dr. Shawn Brewer officiating. Entombment will be held at 3 P.M. Thursday at the Hampton Vaughan Crestview Mausoleum in Wichita Falls, Texas with Brother Tommy Free officiating. Mrs. Armstrong was born on March 11, 1920 in Olden to Elmer Franklin and Grace (Young) Moore. She graduated from Olden High School. She married Weldon B. Armstrong on October 7, 1939 in Carbon. She was a homemaker, a member of the First Baptist Church, and a member of the Roaving Mavericks R.V. Club. Mr. Armstrong preceded her in death on January 26, 2006. She was also preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers, Leslie F. Moore and Arthur L. Moore. Survivors include a son & daughter-in-law, Larry & Vicki Armstrong of Eastland, and Carole Knight of Wichita Falls, TX; 4 grandchildren, Kimberly Gardner & husband J.D. of Lake Kickapoo, Randy Knight & wife Elaine of Decatur, Kelly Armstrong of Eastland, Steve Armstrong of Austin; 6 Great-Grandchildren, Amber Broomfield of Austin and Tawny Broomfield of Wichita Falls, Kendyl Hodges of Eastland, Abby Knight, Emily Knight and Zach Knight all of Decatur.

Garland Fraley
GORMAN- Garland Lee Fraley, age 72, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2010 at his home in Gorman. Services will be 2:00 P. M. Wednesday, February 3, 2010 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Denver Rainey and Kenneth Wilson officiating. Burial will be in Oaklawn Cemetery. Garland was born September 29, 1937 in Sipe Springs, Texas to George Daniel Fraley and Era Faye Fenwick Fraley. He married Gladys Snider on November 27, 1964 in Palo Pinto County. She preceded him in death on May 16, 2006. Garland was a veteran serving in the United State Marine Corps. He worked for Birdsong Peanuts for more than 36 years before retiring in October 2001. He was a member of the Bride of Christ Church. He is survived by two sons, Hank Rainey and Denver Rainey both of Gorman; two brothers, George Fraley and Daniel Fraley both of Gorman; four sisters, Georgia Faye Richardson of Dublin, Louise Rich of Gorman, Nadean Simmons of Eastland and Allie Torres of Ranger; fourteen grandchildren and many great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Deborah Caraway, one brother, Darroll Fraley and one sister, Modean Wilson.

Sylvia Hinton
Sylvia Bea Baggett was born in Stephens County, Texas, on December 10, 1917. She died on Sunday, January 31, 2010, in Pflugerville, Texas at the home of her daughter and son-in-law. Her children were by her side. She was the daughter of Sarah Elizabeth McWilliams and Hollie Davis Baggett, and the great-granddaughter of James Benson McCleskey, a founding settler of the Gunsight Community in Stephens Co. Generations of her family are buried at the family cemetery in Gunsight. Sylvia graduated from Parks High School in 1936. She married Andrew Bailey Hinton on June 20, 1942, in San Antonio. Following the end of World War II, they resumed their life in Eastland, Texas. They relocated their family to Odessa in 1951, where Sylvia lived in the same house until 2006. She only left when the progression of dementia made it impossible for her to continue living alone. Sylvia was a wife, mother and homemaker whose skills as a seamstress were well known. Her yard showed her love of gardening. She also loved crossword puzzles, reading and watching TV. She became a Christ follower in 1949 and was the last remaining charter member who was still a member of Second Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, brothers Huie, JB, Edward and Dale Baggett, and great-grandson Austin Caudillo. Sylvia’s life revolved around family. She is survived by her children Sharron McClellan and husband Michael of Abilene, Blake Hinton and wife Deborah of Arlington and Muriel Parker and husband Ray of Pflugerville. Grandchildren are Eric and Amy McClellan of Midland, James and Kristin McClellan Ashby of Knoxville, TN, Brandon McClellan of Navarre, FL, Larry and Rachel McClellan Walders of Abilene, Michael Pineda of Ft. Worth, Ron Pineda of Miami, FL, Margo Hinton Rodriguez of Ft. Worth, Cliff and Cynthia Hinton Self of Odessa, Paul and Stephanie Hinton Caudillo of Marion, AR, Autumn Bea Hinton of Arlington, Alana Hinton Larson of Odessa, Allan Blake Hinton II and Sloan Hinton of Arlington, Nathan and Nicole Parker Lino of Humble, Andrew Parker of Austin and Derek and Jessica Parker of Humble. Great-grandchildren are Dylan, Daniel, and Deric McClellan, Katherine, James, Madeleine and Zaidee Ashby, Megan and Colton Pineda, Arianna and Alyssa Rodriguez, Spencer, Chandler, Skyler and Conner Anne Self, Zachary, Hunter, Riley and Jordan Caudillo, Devon Hinton, Dylan and Katelin Word, Bailey Larson, and Colton, Campbell, Cassidy and Chloe Lino. She is also survived by her sisters Golda Taylor of Richardson, Louise Curry of Katy, Velma Thomas of Pottsboro, former daughter-in-law Hilda Carvajal of Ft. Worth and numerous nieces and nephews. Services will be Friday, February 5, at 10:30 am at Second Baptist Church in Odessa. Interment will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens under the direction of Frank W. Wilson Funeral Directors. The family will be available for visitation Thursday from 6 – 8 pm at the funeral home. Services will be by the Rev. Nathan Lino.

Hazel McDonald
EASTLAND- Hazel McDonald, age 86, passed away on Thursday, January 28, 2009 at the Ranger Care Center. Cremation services are under the direction of Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. Hazel Marie Jacques was born in Waco, Texas on October 24, 1923 to William Herman and Nora Kathryn (Chambers) Jacques. She married Jack McDonald, was a waitress, cook, homemaker and a member of the Church of Christ. Hazel loved to sew and work in her garden. She moved to Eastland eleven years ago. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Nora and her husband Jack. Hazel is survived by her daughter, Eva Katherine Robinette; her grandchildren, Everette Phillips, Francie Robinette, Jack Phillips and Mike Robinson; and her great-grandchildren, Austin Robinette, Aaron Robinette, Katherine Robinette, Megan Phillips, Carson Phillips and Kathleen Robinson. Hazel will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Beverly Hutcheson
EASTLAND – Beverly Jean Hutcheson, age 71, went to be with the Lord on Friday, January 29, 2010. Funeral services were held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, February 2, 2010 at the Summers–Bakker Chapel. A private burial followed at Eastland Cemetery under the direction of Summers-Bakker Funeral Home. She was born Beverly Jean McClendon in Morton Valley, Texas on December 21, 1938. She was a long time resident of Eastland. Her parents were Donald Ozell and Jessie Lee McClendon. She was a long time employee at Eastland Memorial Hospital. She worked in the kitchen and loved her job and her coworkers. In her spare time Beverly loved to make jewelry and do photography. She loved to write poems and children stories and was an avid artist. Beverly lived her life for the Lord and her family. She was an inspiration to all who knew her. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Ray Hutcheson, Sr.; one grandson, Robert Hutcheson; and her parents, Donald and Jessie McClendon. She married James Ray Hutcheson on November 15, 1954. They had four sons who she is survived by, Jackie Hutcheson and wife Kathy of Eastland, Donnie and Debbie Hutcheson of Oklahoma, Jed and Lisa Hutcheson of Eastland and James Ray Hutcheson, Jr. of Eastland; grandchildren, Jeanie McCarter, Kitty Rasco, Amanda Reyes and husband Ricardo Reyes, Lisa Hutcheson, Daniel Hutcheson, Josh Hutcheson and wife Adrian, Melissa Wallace, Skyler Hutcheson, Cody Hutcheson, Selina Hutcheson, Michelle Williams; and 15 great-grandchildren. Pallbearers are Don Hutcheson, James Hutcheson, Josh Hutcheson, Charles Rasco, Ricardo Reyes, and Jescar Reyes. The family would like to ask that in lieu of flowers any donations can be made to: Hutcheson International Ministries at 4709 East 80th Street, apt. 7H, Tulsa, OK, 74136.

Naida Williamson
Our precious mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Naida L. West Williamson, walked into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, February 2, 2010. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Services will be held Friday, February 5, 2010, 10:00 a.m., at the First Baptist Church in Eastland with Raymond Hamrick and Dr. Shawn Brewer officiating. Visitation will be Thursday, February 4, 2010, 6:00 B 8:00 p.m., at Edwards Funeral Home. Burial will be in Eastland Cemetery. Naida was born on May 25, 1930, in Cross Plains, Texas to Henry and Billie Tatum West. She attended schools in Cross Plains and Haskell. Naida married M. F. Williamson in Albany, Texas, on June 11, 1957, and lived in Eastland for the past forty years. Naida spent her time as a homemaker, taking care of her husband and family. Preceding Naida in death were her husband, her parents, one brother, R. D. West of Leuders, and two grandsons, Alan Gentle of Abilene and Michael Carter of Denton. She is survived by daughter, Pat Carter of Eastland; daughter and son-in-law, Linda and George Ervin, Abilene; son and daughter-in-law, Jim and Mallie Williamson, San Angelo; son, Bobby Williamson, Eastland; daughter and son-in-law, Pam and Jason Smith, Edom; grandchildren, Derriel and Tina; Kelly, Kathlinda, and Naida Lynn; Ginger, Malcom, Amanda, Jodie, and Cassie; Dustin and Deana; Timmy, Shannon, Missy and Bradley; 31 great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Dalton and Katie West of San Diego; sister, Patsy Williamson of Abilene; sister and brother-in-law, Tillie and Paul Griggs of Hawley; sister, Jan Couch of Abilene; brothers-in-law, S. L. Williamson, Albany, and Dub Williamson, Eastland; sisters-in-law, Clara Patterson, Albany, Virgie Beutel, Abilene, Lillie Patton, Eastland, Syble Hamrick, Eastland, Shirley Notgrass, Alvarado, Vonceil Williamson, Ranger and Hattie Williamson, Eastland; and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers are Ron Williamson, Jerry Scott, Wade Couch, Frankie Isbull, Derriel Smith and Richard Pratt. She is survived by daughter, Pat Carter of Eastland; daughter and son-in-law, Linda and George Ervin, Abilene; son and daughter-in-law, Jim and Mallie Williamson, San Angelo; son, Bobby Williamson, Eastland; daughter and son-in-law, Pam and Jason Smith, Edom; grandchildren, Derriel and Tina; Kelly, Kathlinda, and Naida Lynn; Ginger, Malcom, Amanda, Jodie, and Cassie; Dustin and Deana; Timmy, Shannon, Missy and Bradley; 31 great-grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, Dalton and Katie West of San Diego; sister, Patsy Williamson of Abilene; sister and brother-in-law, Tillie and Paul Griggs of Hawley; sister, Jan Couch of Abilene; brothers-in-law, S. L. Williamson, Albany, and Dub Williamson, Eastland; sisters-in-law, Clara Patterson, Albany, Virgie Beutel, Abilene, Lillie Patton, Eastland, Syble Hamrick, Eastland, Shirley Notgrass, Alvarado, Vonceil Williamson, Ranger and Hattie Williamson, Eastland; and numerous nieces and nephews. Pallbearers are Ron Williamson, Jerry Scott, Wade Couch, Frankie Isbull, Derriel Smith and Richard Pratt.

Arlene McCurry
EASTLAND – Arlene Hines McCurry, age 90, passed away on Tuesday, January 26, 2010. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 2:00 pm at the Summers-Bakker Funeral Chapel in Eastland. Interment will follow at Murray Cemetery in Carbon. The family received friends at the funeral home on Friday, January 29th from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. Arlene Hines McCurry was born November 25, 1919 in Carbon, Texas to Henry and Willie Hines. She grew up in Carbon and graduated from Carbon High School. She attended Texas Tech University where she met Lonnie McCurry. They were married February 8, 1941 in Washington, D.C. Arlene spent most of her life making a home for her family while her husband served in the Marine Corps. They lived in many places including Subic Bay Philippines, North Carolina, California, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. When her husband retired from the military they moved to Austin, Texas. They lived there many years and then moved to Houston, Texas and later to Missouri City, Texas. Arlene was a real estate broker in Missouri City with her husband where they owned their own real estate business. They moved to Eastland in 1987 to take care of Arlene’s parents. They bought their home there and enjoyed many years with their family close to them. Arlene enjoyed many activities but most of all she enjoyed being with her husband of 67 years and her family. She enjoyed entertaining her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as well as her many friends over the years. She was an active member of the Abilene Bible Church. She resided in Valley View nursing home from February 2009 where she and her husband have both been residents. She is survived by her husband Lonnie; one sister, Marjorie Adair of Brenham, Texas; her son and daughter-in-law Dean and Gail McCurry of Lewisville, Texas; her daughter and son-in-law Dyanne and Doug Thompson of Baird, Texas; her grandchildren are Brad (and Debbie) Thompson of Albany, Bryan (and Charlotte) Thompson of San Angelo, Kaylen (and Nick) Meserve of Dallas, Scott McCurry of Dallas, and Kevin McCurry of Lewisville. She is survived by her great-grandchildren Taylor Thompson and Tanner Thompson of Albany, Kelsi Thompson and Katie Thompson of San Angelo, and several nieces and nephews. Pallbearers will be her grandsons and great-grandsons. Memorials can be made to Gideon’s International or to the memorial of choice.

Rev. Joe Philpott
CISCO- Reverend Joe David Philpott, 81, of Abilene and formerly of Cisco, went to be with his personal savior, Jesus Christ, on January 27, 2010, after a short illness. Services will be Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 11:00 AM in the Kimbrough Funeral Chapel in Cisco. Reverend Bruce Stovall, assisted by Reverend Baylis Pope, will officiate. Burial will follow in the Cisco Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation was held 5~7:00 PM Friday in the Kimbrough Chapel. Joe is survived by his wife of 56 years, Bettye Jean Mallow Philpott and his three children, Mary K., Amy and Barton, all of Abilene. Joe was a loving husband and a shining Christian example for his children. He loved to laugh and had many friends. He loved growing up and living in Cisco and loved the people in Cisco. Joe was born June 8, 1928, in Vernon, Texas, to Barton and Alma (Moore) Philpott. The family moved to Cisco soon after Joe was born to establish the second of two Philpott Florists. His grandparents, W. A. and Mary Bellah Philpott, along with their daughter, Ruth Lovelady, and her husband, Wylie, established the original Philpott Florists in Abilene in March 1920. The family owned floral businesses in Vernon & Sweetwater. Even though both florists were eventually sold out of the Philpott family, the Philpott name was retained. At age nine, because of the untimely death of his father, a big void was filled in Joe’s life by the boyscouts. He and his brother, Bill, enjoyed many summers at Camp Billy Gibbons, and one of Joe’s proudest accomplishments was earning his Eagle Scout Badge. Joe married Bettye Jean Mallow on April 10, 1953, in Monahans, Texas. He always credited her for being the reason he proudly received a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from “the then Texas A & M College” in 1959. In 1971, Joe and Bettye returned to live in Cisco and joined the First Baptist Church where Joe served as a deacon and later surrendered to preach the gospel. He was ordained as a minister there in 1976. His first pastorate was at Mitchell Baptist Church where he preached for many years before being called to Pleasant Hill Baptist where he retired in January 2003. While preaching, Joe also worked for Halliburton Oil Well Services and eventually retired from the Abilene Camp in September 1991. Joe was also active in the Navy Reserves for 40 years. At the time of his death, Joe and Bettye were living in Abilene with their daughter. Joe loved God, life, his family and his friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. The family requests that memorials be made to the Cisco Cemetery Association, P. O. Box 67, Cisco, TX 76437.

Anna Massingill
Anna Etheridge Williamson Massingill died peacefully January 24, 2010 at the age of 90. She was born June 22, 1919 in Eastland County, Texas to John Henry Dee Markus and Permelia Agnes (Cain) Williamson. Etheridge was the youngest of nine children. Her early childhood was spent in Eastland and the community of County Line, Texas. Etheridge completed high school at Johnesboro, Texas. She married Virgil Wesley Massingill on September 7, 1940. She was a nurse, U.S. mail carrier, and loved to spend time with her family and grandchildren. She enjoyed being outdoors and helping her husband in the ranching business. Etheridge was also an active member of the Grandfalls Union Church in Grandfalls, Texas, where she resided until moving to the Red Rose Christian Home in Midland, Texas in 2003. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and a special sister, aunt, and friend to many. Etheridge was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, her parents, and 4 brothers and 4 sisters. Those left to cherish her memory are her children: Don and Barbara Massingill and Dan Massingill all of Eastland, Mary Lynn and Dave Geurin of Grandfalls, and Carol Anne Green of Midland. Her grandchildren are: Keitha Massingill, Jason Yeager, Rebecca Massingill, Christopher Lewis, Phillip Green, and William Massingill. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be made to Grandfalls Union Church, P.O. Box 304, Grandfalls, Texas 79742 or a charity of your choice. Graveside services were held at 2:00 P.M. Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at Evergreen Cemetery in Hamilton County. Arrangements under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home (432)683-5555, 801 Andrews Hwy, Midland, Texas 79701. Condolences may be offered at www.ellisfunerals.com.

Thomas 'Butch' Smith
HAMBY- Thomas L. “Butch” Smith died Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at an Abilene hospital. Graveside services were held at 3 p.m. Thursday, January 21, 2010 at the Hamby Cemetery with Rev. Robert Craven officiating, directed by Bailey-Howard Funeral Home. Butch was born December 27, 1940 in Eastland County, Texas to Leonard and Lydia (Greenwood) Smith. He attended school in Knox City. Butch married Deborah Browning in Knox City, September 4, 1963 and then moved to Abilene. They moved to Hamby from Abilene in 1974. He was a roughneck, tool pusher, and oilfield worker. Survivors are Deborah Smith of Hamby; three grandchildren, Sonya Lynn Ancell, Meagan Gollihar and Colton Smith; three great-grandchildren, Alexis Smith, Destiny Ancell and Jacklyn Ancell; two sisters, Mary Masters of Abilene and Loretta Taylor of Odessa; one brother, J.P. Smith of Sulpher Springs; nephews, Marion Masters, Bill Hughes; niece, Marilyn Wilson and numerous other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Debbie Gollihar and son, Tommy Smith.

Jerry Mehaffey Sr.
CARBON –Jerry Paul Mehaffey Sr., 76, of Carbon passed away on Saturday, January 23, 2010 at his home. Memorial services were held Monday, January 25, 2010 at 9:30 a.m. at Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland, TX. Jerry was born March 24, 1933. He served as a Navy pilot in the Attack Squadron 113 (VA-113) know as the Stingers, and he served as a fighter pilot aboard the USS Exxex. Jerry was retired as a rancher, businessman, and the owner of Breathco, Inc., and Mehaffey Drug in Gorman, Texas. Jerry is survived by his wife, Lylia Pearl (Houston) of Carbon; his son, Jerry Paul Mehaffey, Jr., his wife, Mara, and their son, Luke, of Arlington. Also, his daughter, Lylia King, her husband, Jon, and their children Hunter and Kaci of Cleburne; brother, Jim Mehaffey of Sherman, and sister, Judy Mehaffey of Taos, NM. He was preceded in death by his father, R. C. Mehaffey, and mother, Pauline (Eppler) Mehaffey; and his brother, Joe Mehaffey.

Ruth Porter
Ruth Allen Porter, age 95 of Gorman, passed away Thursday, January 21, 2010, at the Community Nursing Home in Stephenville. Graveside service was at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 23, 2010 at the Gorman Cemetery with Durward Webb officiating. Mrs. Porter was born June 22, 1914 in Bluff Dale, Texas to Richard Allen and Ola Weeks Allen. She married William Robert Porter on December 22, 1964 in Lubbock, Texas. He preceded her in death on March 16, 1996. She was a homemaker and a member of the Gorman Church of Christ. She is survived by two nieces; Sharon Brown of Midland and Eva Killiam and husband, Kenneth of Abilene; special friends; Wynogene Smith of Gorman and Durward and Mary Webb of Gorman.

Richard Sparks
DALLAS – Richard “Dick” Sparks, age 79, passed away on January 23, 2010 in Dallas. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 PM, Wednesday, January 27, 2010, at Eastland City Cemetery under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home in Eastland. Richard Edgar Sparks was born on July 18, 1930 in Eastland, Texas, the youngest child of J. Frank Sparks and Linnie Dougherty. He grew up in a loving family with brothers Joe, Ben Sparks and sister Pat Butler. He made life-long friends at Eastland High School, graduating in 1947. In 1949 Dick married the love of his life, Audrey Fay Brown, and was happily married for 49 years. He retired from Sun Oil Co. in 1987 and became an avid golfer. He was preceded in death by his wife and his brother, Joe Sparks. His life is celebrated by daughter Shari and husband Wayne Bennett; son Richard F. Sparks; three grandchildren: Stacy Smith and husband Scott, Jay Bennett and wife Meghann, Terry Bennett and Cindy Murray; his five great-grandchildren: Bennett Smith, Audrey Smith, Neva Smith, Murray Bennett and Harrison Bennett; and his brother Ben Sparks and wife Margaret and his sister Pat Sparks Butler, numerous nieces and nephews. Throughout his life, he remained the sweetest man with a kind and gentle disposition. The family gives special thanks to the caregivers at Avalon Residential Care and Vitas Hospice.

Jannie Sanders
EASTLAND – On the evening of January 23, 2010, we sang our sweet mother, Jannie Sanders, into Jesus’ arms. Services were held at 2 P.M. Tuesday, January 26, 2010 at the Corinth Baptist Church. Burial followed in the Eastland City Cemetery. The family received friends at Edwards Funeral Home on Monday from 6 until 8 p.m. Jannie was born to Willie & Linnie May Curtis on May 27, 1938. She is preceded in death by her dad, William H. Curtis; and her husband, Homer D. Sanders. She is survived by 2 daughters, Brenda Lucas & husband Don of Abilene and Tinnia Bass of Abilene; 2 grandsons, Christopher Johnson of San Angelo and Matthew Johnson of Midland; her mother, Linnie Mae Parker of Midland; one brother, Melvin (Sonny) Curtis & wife Bea; many nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and 2 loving wiener-dogs, Aschur & Yadid!

Carolyn Seay
CISCO- Carolyn Marie Seay, 50, of Cisco passed away January 22, 2010, in Eastland. Services will be 10:00 AM Thursday, January 28, 2010 in the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow at 3:00 PM in the San Saba Cemetery. Carolyn was born December 21, 1959, in Arlington, Texas, to Cecil and Jessie Marie (Ringo) Bessent. Her family moved to Rising Star where she attended school. Carolyn was an out-standing athlete in high school. She excelled in track, and made several trips to Austin for the State Meet where she earned medals in several events. She married Matthew Steven Seay in Ranger April 10, 1982. He preceded her in death May 10, 1990. Carolyn attended the New Life Tabernacle Church. She loved nature and began working as a landscaper. At the time of her death, she was employed by Cisco College. She had several responsibilities, but the most noticeable was the landscaping on the campus. One of her goals was to keep the campus beautiful. She was certainly a success. She also did work for the Chamber of Commerce, Sonic and several individuals. She enjoyed music and cooking—more than anything else, Carolyn enjoyed spending time with her children, Jessica and Art. She is survived by children, Art and Jessica and her mother, Jessie Bessent, all of Cisco. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.

Bert Maxwell
Bert Maxwell, 80, of Borger, passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2009 in Amarillo, TX. Bert was born April 15, 1929 to James and Julia (Newton) Maxwell in Putnam, TX. He attended school at Eastland and Cisco, TX. He moved to Borger in 1953 and went to work for Phillips Petroleum Co. During his time there he worked in Teeside, England for a short time. He retired from the supervisory position from Phillips in 1985 after 33 years. Bert was an active member of Calvary Baptist Church and Pauls Sunday School Class. He married Sibyl Hooten on May 12, 1968 in Borger. Bert was preceded in death by his parents; 4 brothers and 2 sisters. He is survived by his wife, Sibyl; one son, Jeff Maxwell of Borger; one daughter, Cindy Grubbs of Middlothian, TX; two step daughters, Junie Chambers and Janie Pruitt both of Amarillo; three brothers, Harrell Maxwell of Borger, Lee Maxwell of Eastland, Glen Maxwell of Moscow, KS; one sister, Inez Davenport of Ft. Worth; six grandchildren and a host of great grandchildren. Serving as pallbearers were his grandsons, Charles Saker, Lesley Saker, Michael Grubbs, Ronnie Grubbs, Rhan Pruitt and Joe Brown. Honorary pallbearer was Lisa Pruitt. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 2, 2010 at Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Jeff Hutchison, Pastor and Charles Saker, assisted. Burial followed at Westlawn Memorial Cemetery.

Jeanene Cleveland
CISCO - Jeanene Parkinson Cleveland, 79, entered heaven on Thursday, January 21, 2010. Services will be held on Tuesday, January 26, 2010, at 2:00 p.m. at the Summers-Chambers Funeral Chapel in Cisco. Interment will follow at Romney Cemetery in Eastland County. The family will receive visitors before the funeral service on Tuesday, January 26, 2010, from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Jeanene graduated from Cisco High School in 1948 and wed her high school sweetheart in September 1949. She had been residing in an assisted living home in San Antonio since her husband’s death. She will be remembered as a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother and friend, who persevered life’s ups and downs with steadfast faith in Jesus Christ. She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Flournoy P. Cleveland, and her parents, Eugene Parkinson and Willie Rich. She was small in stature but strong in raising four boys; Terry Cleveland, of San Antonio, Timothy Cleveland of Las Cruces, NM, Ted Cleveland of San Antonio, and Todd Cleveland of Bend, OR. She is also survived by 7 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Memorials can be made to the following: The Alzheimer’s Association, Star Chapter, 7400 Louis Pasteur Dr,. San Antonio, TX 78229 www.alz.org (Online donations) or Axiom Ministries, 10650 Culebra #104 PMB 465, San Antonio, TX 78251.

Glenda Bragg
EASTLAND – Glenda Bragg, age 58, passed away Monday, January 18, 2010. Graveside services were held on Wednesday, at 2:00 PM, January 20, 2010 at the Evergreen Cemetery in Ranger under the direction of the Summers-Bakker Funeral Home in Eastland. Glenda G. Hayes was born in Birmingham, Alabama on July 14, 1951 to Delmer L. and Lois (Hays) Hayes. She moved to Texas in the mid ‘70’s. She married Johnny Lee Bragg on August 26, 1976 in Eastland. Glenda was a homemaker who loved to volunteer to help in the local Food Pantry and assist elderly people in numerous ways to make their life a little easier. She also enjoyed doing crafts. She was a member of Mountain Top Church. Glenda was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband of over thirty three years, Johnny; her two sons, Johnny Bragg, Jr. of Eastland and Hank Squiers of England; four daughters, Dena Bragg of Texas, Christina O’Neill of Breckenridge, Sherry Bragg of Eastland and Desiree Caplinger of Ranger; two brothers, Danny Hayes of Pennsylvania and Billy Hayes of Indiana; two sisters, Brenda Wagner and Elizabeth Woodberry both of Indiana; and six grandchildren.

Josephine Eyley
RANGER- Josephine Eyley, 88, of Ranger, passed away Tuesday, January 19, 2010 at Arlington Memorial Hospital. Services will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 23, 2010 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel in Ranger. Josephine was born September 15, 1921 in Thurber to Pete Mavrinac and Lena Blozuich Mavrinac. She was raised and educated in Mingus where she graduated from high school. She married Bill Eyley on October 6, 1940. He preceded her in death July 12, 1999. Mrs. Eyley attended the First United Methodist Church of Ranger and was a member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She was an independent Avon representative for more than 35 years. After World War II she worked at Martins Dry Goods Store. Survivors include her daughter, Jo Ann O’Daniel and her husband Robert O’Daniel; granddaughter, Jennifer Ann Crenshaw; and sister Violet Brender. The family received friends for visitation Friday, January 22nd from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home in Ranger.

Betty Lyerla
Betty J. Lyerla, age 81, of Blue Rapids passed away on Monday, January 18, 2010 at Community Memorial Health Care in Marysville. Betty was born June 23, 1928 at Bisbee, Arizona to John W. and Daisy M. (Scott) Deaver. On September 6, 1947 she married Jack L. Lyerla in Clifton, Arizona. Since Jack worked in mining they spent two seven year periods in Peru while Jack worked at a copper mine. She had worked as a secretary and was a homemaker. Betty was a member of the Methodist Church and a member of the Order of the Eastern Star for over sixty years. Her passions were painting, reading, gardening, sewing, collecting rocks, watching old westerns and being around her girls. Survivors include her daughter Betty Ball of Blue Rapids, four granddaughters; Casey Thompson of Jemison Alabama, Kelsey Ball of Manhattan, Meghan Simmons and Whitney Ball both of Blue Rapids, by three great-grandchildren and by a sister Lou Lee Trexler of Alamogordo, New Mexico. Betty was preceded in death by her husband Jack in 2004 and by six brothers and sisters; Howard, Deuard, Jerry, Frank, Lucille and Patricia. Funeral services are planned for 2:00 PM Monday, January 25, 2010 at Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland, Texas with burial at Flatwood Cemetery South of Eastland. Visitation will be from 5-7 on Sunday, January 24th. Memorials are suggested to either the Blue Rapids Historical Society or the Eastern Star Home and may be sent in care of Terry Christie Funeral Home at PO Box 61, Waterville, Kansas 66548.

Velma Nickell
Mrs. Velma Irene “Babe” Miller Nickell died at her home near Caddo early Tuesday, January 19, 2010, at the age of 89 years. Funeral service with Revs. Charles West and Wayne Hunter officiating was held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, January 22, 2010 at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church. Burial followed at Caddo Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home. She was born at the Benny Ranch in an oilfield camp in Stephens County on October 15, 1920 to Riley Edgar Miller and Rosa Mae Dempsey Miller. She attended schools in Buffalo, Grosevena, Frankel, and was graduated from Ranger High School in 1939. Five days later, she married Harve Knox “Pete” Nickell; they celebrated 50 years of marriage in June, 1989. Most of her married life, Babe lived on the Nickell place off Highway 180 near Caddo. In 1977, her children joined forces and built her a new home, complete with a native stone fireplace in a large living room, which became Babe’s favorite place in the world. In October, it became increasingly hard for her to walk and in January she finally agreed to be taken to Fort Worth for evaluation; her health deteriorated rapidly and after ten days of hospitalization, she asked to be allowed to die at home by her fireplace. She was transported by ambulance from Plaza Medical Center of Fort Worth to Caddo on Monday evening, and she died peacefully, early the next morning, well aware that she was near her beloved fireplace, where she drank her coffee every morning for more than 30 years, even during the summer, before she began her very active day. She loved quilting, bingo, Skip-bo, and spending time with her large family, and numerous friends. She loved earning money by collecting aluminum cans, gathering pecans, and hosting garage sales. Her surviving children include Melvin Ray Nickell of Lubbock and wife, Pat, R. Lee Nickell of Breckenridge, and Donnie Wayne Nickell and wife, Wilhemina of Seagoville. She is further survived by 18 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Babe is also survived by one brother, R. L. Miller of La Casa. She was preceded in death by a sister Violet Basham, brothers Lloyd Edgar “Bud” Miller, Benny Edmond Miller, and Bobby Ray Miller. Numerous nieces and nephews survive Babe. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Harve Knox “Pete” Nickell, in February, 1990, and four of her seven children, Patricia May Nickell Al-Tayyib, Wanda Joyce Nickell Madsen, Joe Edgar Nickell, and Robby Glen Nickell. The family has asked that donations go to the American Cancer Society or the fund for her great-grandson, Carson Richardson, at the Carson Richardson Medical Fund, % Kimberly Richardson, 5001 Griffin Ct., McKinney, TX 75070 or log on to http//www.caringbridge.org/visit/Richardson. The family invites friends to leave a condolence or share a memory of Velma in our online guestbook at www.meltonkitchens.com.

Flora Gibbs
Flora (known by many as Flo) Gibbs of Ozona, Texas went to be with her Lord and Savior on January 15, 2010. Mrs. Gibbs left this world to reside in her eternal home after a short illness while in a local hospital in San Angelo. Flo was born in Rowden, Texas on June 19, 1930 to Lillie Ann Swafford and John Roberson Swafford. Flo’s life was centrally based around her two children, Benny Gibbs of Ozona and Claudia Gibbs Hernandez of Ft. Stockton, Texas. Flora was also blessed with five beautiful grandchildren: Michael Gibbs of San Angelo, Texas, Brian Kneisley of Odessa, Texas, Brittani Gibbs of Tucson, Arizona, Julie Hernandez of Midland, Texas, and Ashley Hernandez of Ft. Stockton, Texas; three great-grandkids that always made her smile was also a big and happy part of her life. Flo was preceded in death by her late husband, Douglas Gibbs; parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Swafford; three brothers, W.L. Swafford of Ranger, Carlos Swafford and Pete Swafford of Cross Plains. Flo is survived by two sisters, Nita Rawson and Katie Dunn of Baird, Texas; along with a brother, Leonard Swafford of Anson, Texas. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, January 18, 2010 by Mike Andress of Hospice of San Angelo at the Ft. Stockton East Hill Cemetery. The family request that memorials be directed to the Crockett County Care Center in Ozona, Texas. God bless you.

Rowena Wilson
GORMAN- Rowena Lucile Wilson, age 86, of Gorman, passed away Monday, January 18, 2010 at the Homestead Nursing Home in Gorman. Services will be 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Richard Watson officiating. Burial will follow at Gorman Cemetery. Mrs. Wilson was born January 1, 1924 in South English, Iowa to Clarence Sheets and Lucile Mullencamp Sheets. She graduated from Iowa State University with a bachelor’s degree and later got her masters degree at Southwestern University in Georgetown. She married Luther Ross Wilson on December 23, 1949 in Gorman. Mrs. Wilson taught at Daniel Baker College in Brownwood for two years. She then started teaching in the Gorman Schools and taught there for 41 years. She was very proud of her UIL students and the many state contests they attended. She was a 53 year member of the Gorman United Methodist Church and a 50 plus years member of the Eastern Star. Survivors include her husband, Ross Wilson of Gorman; nephew and niece, Joe Bob and Jerrie Sherrod of Llano; great-nephew, Joe David Sherrod of Spicewood and great-niece, Cathy Klafehn of Flower Mound and a host of cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Roman (Raymond) Garcia, Jr.
RANGER- Roman (Raymond) Garcia, Jr., age 70 of Ranger, went to be with the Lord on Monday, January 11, 2010. Memorial service will be 2:00 P. M. Thursday, January 21, 2010 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Deacon Reuben Castan`eda officiating. Raymond was born on August 12, 1939 in Greenlake, Texas to Roman Garcia and Olivia Espinoza Garcia. He was raised in Edna, Texas. He married Ofelia Lopez on May 20, 1962 in Brownfield, Texas. He worked as a cottom ginner for many years, in Seagraves, Seminole and Big Spring, Texas. He worked at Texas Instruments in Lubbock for 5 years as electric maintenance supervisor. After TI closed the plant in Lubbock, he went to work at McLanes Southwest in Temple, Texas, where he worked for l4 years as electric maintenance supervisor. He retired due the health problems in 1999. He and his wife then moved to Ranger, Texas. Survivors include his wife, Ofelia Garcia of Ranger; two daughters, Norma Underhill and husband, Johnny of McGregor, and Nelda Woltemath of Sedgwick, Colorado; four brothers, Tomas Garcia of Benton Harbor, Michigan, Robert Garcia of Crosby, Rueben Garcia of Houston, Johnny Joe Garcia of Mercedes; three sisters, Estella Lopez of San Angelo, Eva Lozano of Mercedes, and Erma Garcia of Edcouch; five grandchildren, Jonathan Freeman, Lance Woltemath, Lacie Barnes , Jaden Woltemath and Hallee Woltemath. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Beatrice.

Mary McCracken
CISCO- Mary Durene McCracken died peacefully at her home Sunday, January 17, 2010, after a lengthy illness borne with the faith, dignity, and enduring charm that characterized her life. She was born to W. T. Cogburn and Annie Laurie Kinney Cogburn in Cisco, Texas, on 24 July 1918. She was the youngest of six children and was preceded in death by brothers Albert, Charles, and Clarence, and sister Lillian. Durene attended Cisco schools including Randolph College now Cisco College. Durene and Standlee McCracken were married 22 July 1938 at the First Presbyterian Church in Cisco. They were blessed with 60 years and 4 months of marriage until his death 6 December 1998. They were also blessed with one son, Standlee C. McCracken. She worked for Drs. Hubert Seale and Emmit Graham, and Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. She received the last “Number, please” operator assisted call before switching to dial calling in the Cisco office. She worked in both Cisco and Abilene as Assistant Chief Operator Services. She enjoyed teaching the basic operator skills and latest technology to new telephone operators. She retired after 25 years 9 months service in 1978 to care for her husband. She was a long-time member of the former Disciples of Christ First Christian Church in Cisco, and served the church in numerous capacities. She was a member of the 20th Century Club in Cisco and the Telephone Pioneers in Abilene. Durene was an avid reader and had a great fund of knowledge in history, religion, and the arts. She enjoyed traveling the world with her husband and son. She has been lovingly cared for during this illness by Kathleen Watson, Rita Canistraci, Gina Tucker, Marti Alexander, Sharla Morgan, and the Lighthouse Hospice team headed by Nancy Harris, R.N., Mary Ann Rice, R.N., Mo Namuth, R.N., Natisha Phillips, CNA, Sissy Ward, MSW, and the Rev. Joe Bernier Hospice Chaplain. Durene is survived by her son, Stan McCracken, of Cisco; her sister, Floss (Mrs. J. Pierre) LeCoq of Columbia, South Carolina; nieces and nephews and their families; and an extended family of close friends. Services entrusted to Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation was from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday, January 19, 2010. Funeral, the Rev. Jack Clack officiating, will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at the Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel. Internment, the Rev. Joe Bernier, Lighthouse Hospice Chaplain officiating, will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Pallbearers are Matt Johnson, Butch Willingham, Ron Holiday, Olin Odom, Marlin Marcum, Jimmy Latson, Steve Thomas, and Jimmy Yowell. Honorary pallbearers are Bill Midkiff, Clyde Fisher, Eris Ritchie, Tilden Spencer, Howard Henry, and Mickey Norvell. Memorials are suggested to the Cisco Cemetery Association, Cisco Public Library, or Lighthouse Hospice Eastland, Texas.

Della Hebron
CISCO- Della Maxine Hebron, 51 of Cisco, passed from this life Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center. Arrangements are pending with Kimbrough Funeral Home.

Earnest Elam
CROSS PLAINS- Earnest Adair Elam, 71, of Cross Plains, Texas, passed away Friday, January 5, 2010 at Hendrick Medical Center. Graveside services were held at 11 AM Monday, January 11, 2010 at Scranton Cemetery, officiated by Reverend Clayton Pennington with services directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home. The family received friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 4:00-6:00 PM. Adair was born in Scranton, Texas on May 8, 1938 to Jasper Herbert and Bonnie Lee (Nelms) Elam. He was a life long farmer and rancher. He married Janie Ree Cumba on September 12, 1958 in Sabanna, Texas. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Halfway, Texas. He is survived by his wife Janie of Cross Plains; son, Brian Elam and wife Carrie of Bella Vista, Arkansas; daughters, Sharla Sanders and husband Rondall of Abilene, Texas and Darla Williams and husband Perry of Coppell, Texas; sister, Virginia Gilliam and husband Larry of Scottsdale, Arizona; brothers, James Elam and wife Joyce of Abilene, Texas and Charles Elam and wife Kathy of Memphis, Tennessee; 14 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Billy Ben Elam. Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, 107 South Danville Drive Abilene, TX 79605, (325) 692-6446.

Billy "Bill" Underwood
GORMAN- Billy “Bill” Glen Underwood, age 52 of Gorman, died Sunday, January 10, 2010. Services will be 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at the Higginbotham Funeral Home Chapel with Durward Webb officiating. Burial will follow at Murray Cemetery near Carbon. Bill was born on January 26, 1957 in Gorman to Burl Gene Underwood and Mary Lee Broom Underwood. He married Angela Pockrus on February 20, 1988 in Eastland. Bill attended Gorman Schools. He had been an Eastland county commissioner for the past ten years. He was a member of the Gorman Volunteer Fire Department. Survivors include his wife, Angela Underwood of Gorman; daughter, Chasta Carlton and husband, Kris of Gorman; two sons, Matt Underwood of Abilene and Tyson Underwood of Gorman; parents, Gene and Mary Underwood of Gorman; grandson, Dylan Carlton of Gorman; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by a brother, Bobby Underwood.

Doris Vaughn
RISING STAR- Doris Jean Vaughn, 79, died Thursday, January 7, 2010 in Abilene, Texas. Services were held at 3 p.m. Sunday, January 10, 2010 at Higginbotham Funeral Chapel. Burial was in South Park Cemetery in Pearland.

Glen Stennett
CISCO- Glen Weldon Stennett, age 61, of Cisco, Texas passed away Sunday, January 10, 2010 at home. Born in Paducah, Texas, he moved to Cisco, TX. at age 13 and graduated from Cisco High School. Glen was a master plumber and loving husband, father, and grandfather. Glen was preceded in death by his parents, Weldon and Wilma Stennett of Cisco; one brother, Walter Stennett of Bryson; and one son, Dwayne Stennett of Austin. He is survived by his wife, Jeanie; daughter, Glena Smith of Ohio and grandchildren, Bryan Wilson and wife, Tammy, Jennifer, Stephanie and Eric Smith; daughter, Shelly Alman and husband, Tommy, grandson, Aiden of Florida; daughter, Melissa Deuter and husband, Brian, grandchildren, Christopher, Zachary and Mia of San Antonio, TX; son, Blake Wilson and wife, Vanessa of Eastland; stepchildren, Russell Heasley and wife, Yvette of California, Jacquetta Ewing and husband, Rob, grandchildren, T.J., Ricky, and Makaela of Texas, Miriah Clark and grandchildren, Lukas and Damiahana (DeDe) of Ohio; brothers, Neal and wife, Linda Stennett, Dwight and wife, Maggie Stennett; sisters, Kathy and husband, Billy Jack Bush, Kristy and husband, Jerry Ballinger; sister-in-law, Charolette Stennett; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and many family and friends who will dearly miss and love him. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, January 17, 2010 at the First United Methodist Church in Cisco. Burial will follow in the Oakwood Cemetery directed by Kimbrough Funeral Home. Visitation will be Saturday, January 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Kimbrough Funeral Home Chapel.

Kathryn Schkade
Dearly known as “Grandma Kitty”, Kathryn Schkade who was 87 and a resident of Eastland, passed away on December 29, 2009 at 5:50 a.m. in the ICU at Hendrick Medical Center, Abilene, TX. Born in 1922 in Tulsa, OK., Kathryn was the daughter of the late John L. Sullivan and Beulah Wooley-Sullivan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Landon L. Schkade, Sr., in 1989; sister, Georgia Ruth Sullivan-Anthony, in 1995; brother, John Lester (Buck) Sullivan, Jr, in 1997; brother, Tommy Fontaine Sullivan, in 2004; and son, Garry C. Schkade, in 2008. She is survived by one son, Landon L. Schkade, Jr. of Worcester, MA; and four grandchildren, Jaimie Wood, Lakeside, CA, Caroline Schkade, Englewood, CO., Susana Burt, Eastland, TX, and John Schkade, Eastland, TX. Kathryn loved to spend time with family, friends, and her dog Heidi. She enjoyed painting with oils (and has many beautiful paintings to be remembered by), cooking and baking (famous for her 9 layer salad, manicotti, cornbread, and numerous other mouthwatering dishes and desserts), reading the Bible, listening to classical music, and watching America’s Funniest Home Videos. Kathryn was very lighthearted. She poked fun and laughed as much as possible. The last four years of her life, she lived with her grandson-in-law and granddaughter, Eric Burt and Susana (Schkade) Burt in Eastland. They took her in, trying to take care of her, but realized that she was taking care of them. She was such a blessing to the Schkade and Burt family, and really was the best grandmother one could ask for. She was always there to talk to, always had godly advice, and loved unconditionally. She will be missed, but never forgotten. Her Memorial Service was held Saturday, January 9, 2010 at 4 p.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Cisco. Vicar Eric Stinnette officiated. Burial was in Greenwood Memorial Park and Mortuary in San Diego, CA. next to her husband’s burial place in a reserved mausoleum.

Mary Fitzgerald
ABILENE- Mary Louise Fitzgerald, 97, passed away Sunday, January 3, 2010 in Eastland. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, January 9, 2010, at Elliott-Hamil Chapel of Faith, 5701 Hwy 277 South, with burial to follow in Elmwood Memorial Park. Eris Ritchie will officiate the service. Visitation was from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 Hwy 277 South. Louise was born in Malone, Texas, October 15, 1912, but raised in Weatherford where she graduated from high school in 1929. She lived in Abilene from 1949 to 1982, where her late husband, D.F. Fitzgerald, was a long-time elementary school principal in AISD. Since that time, Louise has lived in the Eastland area. She has always been an active member of her church, doing much volunteer work there. In Abilene, she was a member of Hillcrest Church of Christ. She had a love for flowers and gardening and also enjoyed sewing and knitting. An avid reader, Louise also loved entertaining her friends and family. Louise was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; four sons- 3 baby Fitzgeralds and Mac Lee; three sisters; two brothers; and two grandchildren. She is survived by three daughters, Mary Batson and husband, Don of Fayetteville, AR, Jean Anderson of Cisco, TX, and Loudel Winkles and husband, Carlton, also of Cisco; a daughter-in-law, Joyce Cheatham and husband, Carl of Clyde, TX; 11 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and 19 great-great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to I-20 Church of Christ, P.O. Box 629, Cisco, TX 76437. You may view and sign guestbook at HYPERLINK “http://www.mem.com” wwwmem.com

Winston Brown
GORMAN- Winston Gyn Brown, age 88 of Gorman, passed away Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at the Veterans Hospital in Temple. Services were held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, January 8, 2010 at the First Baptist Church with Bro. Barry Schahn officiating. Burial followed at Oaklawn Cemetery. Mr. Brown was born June 14, 1921 in Comanche County to Charlie Brown and Viola Wolfenbarger Brown. He married Thelma Forrest on July 23, 1941 in DeLeon. She preceded him in death on October 30, 2004. Mr. Brown was a retired farmer and a member of the First Baptist Church. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the United States Army. He lived in Lamesa and a short time in Del Rio before moving to Gorman in April 1989. He is survived by five sons, Ronnie Brown and wife, Terrie of Lamesa, Dennis Brown and wife, Debi of Longview, Stanley Brown and wife, Lisa of Lamesa, Roger Brown of Gorman and Jerry Brown of Gorman; three sisters, Sue Keesee of Gorman, Gearldene Wright of Gorman and Patsy Kelso of Irving; three brothers, Eugene Brown and Earl Brown both of Del Rio, and Charles Brown of Alaska; six grandchildren and five great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Gerry Lynn Brown and a sister, June Biffle.

Mildred Balch
ABILENE- Mildred Balch, 84, died Tuesday, January 5, 2010 in a local medical center. Services were held at 2 p.m. Friday, January 8, 2010 at Elliott-Hamil Chapel of Memories, officiated by Rev. Norman Patton. Graveside service followed in Cedar Hill Cemetery. Mildred was the daughter of the late Robert and Lela Mae (Brewster) Balch. She was born February 2, 1925 in Ranger, Texas, where she graduated from Ranger High School. She later graduated from Texas Woman’s University and received her Master’s degree from Hardin-Simmons University. She was formerly employed by Abilene Independent School District for 28 years where she taught at Bonham Elementary. She also taught in Ranger for 10 years and in Crane, Texas for one year, totaling 39 years as a teacher, retiring in 1984. She was a member of Texas State Teachers Association, National Education Association, American Business Women’s Association, and a member of Southwest Drive United Methodist Church, formerly Fairmont United Methodist Church, where she was the organist for 20 years. She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Willard B. Balch; and her aunt, Mrs. Bessie Adams. Survivors are a brother, Robert “Bob” Balch, Jr. and wife, Ann of Tucumcari, NM; 5 nephews, Burton Balch and wife, Dianne and their two sons of Houston, Blane Balch and wife, Harley Cozewith of Dallas, Byron Balch and wife, Emily and their two sons of Chicago, IL., Scott Balch and wife, Lynda and their two sons, and a daughter-in-law, of Dallas, Jeff Balch and wife, Tori and daughter and son of Dallas; a niece, Cindy Boyd and husband, Dave and their two daughters, of Dallas. Memorials may be made to Southwest Drive United Methodist Church 3025 Southwest Drive, Abilene, TX 79605.

Terry Peeples
EASTLAND – Terry Peeples, 52, of Eastland, went to meet his father in the evening of Wednesday, January 6, 2010, in Eastland. The family will receive friends at Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland on Saturday from 6 until 8 P.M. Services will be held at 2 P.M. Sunday, January 10, 2010 at the Leon River Cowboy Church with Paul Howie officiating. Burial will follow in the Eastland City Cemetery. Terry Hollis Peeples, 52, of Eastland, born in Ranger, Texas on September 20, 1957 to Carl H. Peeples and Joyce (Wheat) Peeples. Terry was an Eastland County resident for most of his life. He graduated from Midland Lee High School in 1976. He worked several jobs until he found his career as a telephone contractor. Terry has worked for Sheno Corp. over 25 years and has enjoyed his job thoroughly. Along his journey he has made many friends that still remain true friends. He married Kerri Hendricks on January 8, 1993. They combined their two families and became a perfect match. They shared 17 years and a lot of love. He enjoyed many years of coaching Little League and Flag Football. He was also a big part of the Ranger Jaycees for many years. Terry was a big Dallas Cowboy fan and loved to talk football. Terry was a member of Leon River Cowboy Church and certainly enjoyed his church family. Survivors include his mother, Joyce Peeples of Ranger; his wife, Kerri Peeples; five children, Brittany Peeples, Buck Peeples, Tiffani Peeples, Cameron Hicks and Jonathon Oxford with fiancee’ Megan Vernon all of Eastland; three grandchildren, Cheyenne Hernandez, Max Hernandez, and Addyson Oxford all of Eastland; two sisters, Linda Meroney of Eastland and Carla and Randell Wells of Belton; several aunts and uncles; and many nieces and nephews. Terry was preceded in death by his father, Carl Peeples. Terry will be missed by all who knew him. - Hats off to you Terry.

Mary Burns
CLYDE- Mary Burns, 73, of Clyde, died Monday, December 28, 2009 at a local hospital. A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 2, 2010 with Pastor Terrell Jackson officiating at Community Memorial Funeral Home. Mary was born in Stanton, Texas on August 21, 1936, the daughter of Clyde and Johnnie (Dollar) White. She moved to Abilene from Dallas in 1978 and worked as an X-ray technician for Hendrick Medical Center for 30 years. Survivors are a son, Glynn Meissner of Fort Worth; two daughters, Terry Pape and husband, Dennis of Cisco and Sherry Clark and Zachary Sochaki of Palatine, IL.; one brother, James White and his wife, Vera of Clyde; two sisters, Margie Gordon and Wanda Campbell; 7 grandsons, 4 granddaughters, and 6 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and special friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; and her husband, Dan. Memorial gifts may be sent to Hendrick Hospice P.O. Box 1922, Abilene, Texas 79604.

Luther Loudamy, Jr.
RANGER – Our precious father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, Luther Frank (Sonny) Loudamy, Jr., passed away from this earth on Friday, January 1, 2010. He will be missed by all who knew him. Services were held at 2:00 P.M., Monday, January 4, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Ranger. Burial followed at Breckenridge Cemetery. Luther was born on October 26, 1923, in Veribest, Texas to Luther Frank Loudamy and Sophronia Lucia Smith Loudamy. He started working for Safeway Stores in Breckenridge at the age of 20. There he met Sybil Elaine McKinney. They were married on March 9, 1947, in Abilene, Texas. Luther worked for Safeway for 27 years in various locations in West Texas and Arkansas. In 1969, the couple bought Quality Food Mart in Ranger, which they operated until 1983. Luther was a member of the First Baptist Church, Ranger. He enjoyed bowling, and was on many leagues and bowled in many tournaments statewide over the years. Preceding Luther in death are his wife of 61 years, Sybil, as well as his parents, 2 sisters, Evelyn and Millie, and 3 brothers, Truett, Durwood and Troy Wade. He is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Barbra Loudamy, Allen; daughter, Sherry Williamson, Eastland; daughter and fiancé, Laurie Loudamy and Robert Justice, Coppell; grandchildren, Dustin Williamson and Deana Williamson, Waco; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bryan and Wilma McKinney, Arlington; and Waldean McKinney, Albuquerque, NM, and many special nieces and nephews; and a close family friend, Mike de los Santos.

Shalor Copeland
Shalor Copeland, age 62 of Strawn, died Monday, January 4, 2010, at The Woodlands in Eastland. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, January 6th, at the First Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Orsini officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Marion Cemetery under the direction of Morehart Mortuary. Shalor Copeland, II was born on June 3, 1947 in Stephens County, Texas to parents, William Copeland and Faye Stinnett. He grew up in Strawn and graduated from Strawn High School in 1965. He later went on to graduate from Ranger Junior College. Shalor enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served in Vietnam, earning both the Purple Heart and the Silver Star Awards. He married Phyllis Ann McConnell on August 14, 1976 in Stephens County. Shalor was a lifelong rancher, operating Copeland Ranch which encompassed land in Palo Pinto, Stephens and Eastland Counties. He was a member of the American Legion, the Texas Southwest Cattle Raisers Association and the American Quarter Horse Association. He was also a Shriner and a member of the Strawn Masonic Lodge. Next to ranching, Shalor also enjoyed roping and hunting. He attended the Cowboy Church of Olden. He was preceded in death by his parents. Shalor is survived by his wife, Phyllis of Strawn; one son, Shalor “Sha” Copeland and wife, Kimberley of Leonard; one daughter, Kipi Copeland Gailey and husband, Ian of Weatherford; five grandchildren, Walker, Waverly and Maverik Copeland all of Leonard and Dallas and London Gailey both of Weatherford; one brother, Will Copeland of Strawn; one sister, Andrea Bennett of Thurber; father-in-law, Harwell McConnell and wife, Jinger of Breckenridge; mother-in-law, Cornelia McConnell of Breckenridge; sisters-in-law, Sheila Workman and husband, Edd of Possum Kingdom and Connie “Mule” Wooten and husband, Kenneth of Breckenridge; and a host of nephews and nieces. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimers Foundation and may be left at Morehart Mortuary. Condolences may be sent online at www.morehartmortuary.net.

Edwin Weiss
CROSS PLAINS- Edwin Weiss, 78, of Cross Plains died Sunday, January 3, 2010 in Rising Star. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at the First Baptist Church of Cross Plains with Pastor Ronnie B. White officiating. Visitation was held from 5-6 p.m. Monday at Higginbotham Funeral Home. Edwin was born January 31, 1931 in Coppell, Texas to Thomas Carl and Blanch (Andrews) Weiss. He married Betty Jean Davis on May 18, 1952 in Coleman. He worked in the oil field for awhile, then went to work for 3 M Company and retired after 25 years with the company in April 1993. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He served on the City Council for 17 years, and was a member of the First Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; and two daughters. Survivors are his wife, Betty Weiss of Cross Plains; son, Eddie Dwayne Weiss and wife Wanda of Bangs; daughters, Sandra Carey and husband Rickey and Brenda Weiss all of Cross Plains; brothers, Wilburn Weiss and Douglass Weiss both of Cross Plains; sisters, Joan Brown of Cross Plains and Dixie Corley of Olney; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Lesa Roberts
CISCO- Lesa Roberts, age 60, of Cisco, passed away Friday, January 1, 2010 in Abilene. An open visitation was held Sunday, January 3, 2010 from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm at the Summers-Chambers Funeral Home in Cisco. Funeral Services were held at 2:00 pm, Sunday, January 3, 2010 at the Summers-Chambers Funeral Chapel in Cisco with Terrell Jackson officiating. Interment followed at the Oakwood Cemetery in Cisco. Delesa Gay Rhodes was born on February 14, 1949 to Jim and Frances (Ross) Rhodes in Dalhart, Texas. She was a beautician in Cisco for many years. She is survived by her two sons, Brian Wagnon of Lubbock and Ty Roberts of Cisco; her daughter, Shannon Roberts of Cisco; her brother, Bobby Rhodes of McKinney; her two sisters, Deann Light of Cisco and Mickey Edwards of Eastland; and five grandchildren.

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